England’s World Cup campaign faces a fresh setback as two key players are reported to be carrying fitness concerns ahead of their final group game.

Declan Rice and Reece James are both facing late fitness checks ahead of England’s decisive Group stage clash against Panama, according to reports.

The pair have been central to Thomas Tuchel’s plans throughout the tournament, starting both of England’s games so far against Croatia and Ghana.

England were held to a frustrating 0-0 draw with Ghana in their second group game, and the fitness news emerging after the match has added to the concern surrounding the Three Lions.

Rice was unable to complete 90 minutes against Croatia and was also seen struggling at the end of the goalless draw with Ghana on Tuesday evening.

The Telegraph have reported that the Arsenal midfielder left the stadium with strapping on his left calf, though the issue is not thought to be particularly serious or long term at this stage.

Despite the relatively positive initial assessment, Rice could still require late fitness checks before Tuchel names his side to face Panama in their crucial final group fixture.

James, meanwhile, was reported to have felt uncomfortable during the Ghana game, though the Chelsea right-back was able to complete 90 minutes in both of England’s matches so far.

Given James’ well-documented injury record over the years, England’s medical staff are expected to take a cautious approach with the 26-year-old ahead of the Panama fixture.

Tuchel has also been working with James in a midfield role during training, meaning the Chelsea defender could theoretically provide cover for Rice should the Arsenal man be ruled out.

England currently sit on four points in the group, level with Ghana, while Croatia have three and Panama are yet to open their account with zero points.

With the group so tightly contested, losing either Rice or James for the Panama game would represent a significant blow to England’s hopes of progressing with momentum into the knockout rounds.

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