Thomas Tuchel gives an update on the England team ahead of important events

Thomas Tuchel gives an update on the England team ahead of an important event

Thomas Tuchel, the coach of the England national team, has given an update on the fitness of his players ahead of the crucial World Cup game against Mexico. In particular, the situation surrounding Reece James, who could potentially return to the matchday squad, is in focus. The Chelsea captain did not take part in training on Saturday afternoon, but completed an individual program to recover from a thigh injury. However, Tuchel explained that James must pass a final fitness test before kick-off at 6pm on Sunday. Jarrell Quansah, on the other hand, is fit again after his ankle injury and could take over the right-back position, while Djed Spence, who struggled in the last game against DR Congo, could move to the bench. "Jarrell has trained and is fully available," said Tuchel. "Reece may be able to sit on the bench but we need a final assessment from the doctors." There is also positive news for Declan Rice, who was declared fit for the round of 16 game despite persistent pain in his back and thigh. Rice played at right-back in the last game against DR Congo but is expected to start in the central midfield position alongside Elliot Anderson. Tuchel was optimistic about the expected atmosphere in the stadium. He does not believe the English players will face a "hostile environment" but rather that the Mexican fans will be emotional and supportive of their team. "It will be emotional and full of support for the home team," Tuchel said at the pre-match press conference. "I don't expect any animosity. So far everyone has been very respectful." Anticipation for the game is high and there is already talk about whether the England players may have trouble sleeping as Mexican fans will celebrate loudly outside their hotel. However, Tuchel reassured that the team "deserves respect" and that around 100 police officers will guard the team's hotel. "We have no problems today; I think FIFA is aware of the situation and we have security around the hotel," he explained. "It's a 6pm kick-off, so if we can't sleep, we have time to recover in the morning." England completed a one-hour training session on Saturday afternoon to get used to Mexico City's altitude, which sits at 2,200 meters above sea level. Tuchel admitted he felt the altitude but it's nothing you can't handle. "We feel that, I had a slight headache during the day but nothing that you can't manage or adjust to," he said. Jordan Henderson, who sat next to Tuchel at the press conference, stressed that the upcoming occasion represents one of the biggest challenges of his career. "A huge event, it doesn't get much bigger or better than playing against Mexico in Mexico City. It's an incredible opportunity for everyone, but it's about staying focused. Mexico is a very good team with very good players. Every game in the World Cup is difficult - everyone is looking forward to this game tomorrow. I hope it brings out the best in us," said Henderson.