Quansah listed on England's bench against DR Congo but never changed into kit

Jarell Quansah was named on England’s bench for their 2-1 World Cup victory over DR Congo at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta on Tuesday, but the Liverpool defender never actually changed into his kit, watching the match in street clothes alongside the similarly sidelined Reece James.

Quansah had picked up an ankle injury after starting England’s 2-0 win over Panama in New Jersey the previous week, forcing him off during that game. Manager Thomas Tuchel had indicated at his pre-match press conference that both Quansah and James were unlikely to feature against DR Congo, making his subsequent inclusion in the squad list all the more surprising.

“They are getting closer and closer,” Tuchel said of the pair before the match. “Jarell is a little bit ahead of Reecey. The race was close to even make it in the match squad for this time. We need to make sure we have more matches, that is the main focus, and then they will be available very soon.”

Quansah was spotted walking on the pitch at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium before kick-off, suggesting he was genuinely part of the travelling squad, but he ultimately remained in civilian clothing throughout the contest.

There is hope he will be fit to feature against Mexico at the Azteca Stadium in the Round of 16, though a starting berth looks unlikely. He has returned to light training on the grass and could rejoin full team sessions in Kansas City before the squad depart for Mexico City on Friday.

In Quansah’s absence, Djed Spence started at right-back and endured a difficult evening in Georgia. He was caught out of position for DR Congo’s opener, with Brian Cipenga capitalising to beat Jordan Pickford. Harry Kane’s second-half brace ultimately sealed England’s progression, and Tuchel was effusive in his praise for the team’s resilience after falling behind.

“This team today did not accept defeat as an outcome,” the England manager said. “They just didn’t accept it, and it makes me very proud because they did what was necessary. The going got tough today, and then they showed up, and we got the deserved win.”

Tuchel also reflected on a difficult opening period, acknowledging that England’s press failed to function as intended in the first 15 to 20 minutes, before his side grew into the match and eventually secured a place in the last 16.