England have been handed a major double fitness boost just hours before their crucial World Cup quarter-final showdown against Norway.
Manager Thomas Tuchel faced the prospect of shuffling his backline after Marc Guehi picked up a hamstring strain during England’s thrilling 3-2 victory over co-hosts Mexico at the Estadio Azteca. Midfielder Declan Rice was also a major doubt, having been isolated from the squad with a stomach bug to prevent it from spreading through the camp.
Fortunately for England fans, both key players returned to training alongside the rest of the squad on Friday at Inter Miami’s training facilities and look set to feature. Right-back Reece James, who missed the last three matches with his own hamstring issue, also rejoined the group.
The only absentee from training was Jordan Henderson, who is recovering from wrist surgery following a celebratory tumble after the Mexico game.
The defensive reinforcements are exactly what Tuchel needs as he plots a way to neutralize Norway’s formidable striker, Erling Haaland. Tuchel is already without defender Jarell Quansah, who is serving a two-match ban following a red card in the last-16 tie.
With soaring heat and humidity expected in Miami, and Haaland hungry for the golden boot, England will need a fully fit squad to overcome a confident Norwegian side that knocked out Brazil in their previous match. The winner of tonight’s clash will go on to face either Argentina or Switzerland in the semi-finals.