England injury blow as three players miss training ahead of Norway clash | Football | Sport
England’s preparations for their quarter-final against Norway have been disrupted (Image: The FA via Getty Images)
England pair Declan Rice and Marc Guehi sat out training ahead of the World Cup quarter-final showdown with Norway. Rice has been dealing with lower back problems, while Guehi is believed to be suffering from muscle fatigue following the heroic victory over Mexico and is currently undertaking recovery work.
Both players are working through individual fitness programmes but are anticipated to be ready for the crunch clash in Miami. Thomas Tuchel’s side took part in an open training session at their Kansas City base, with the TV cameras in attendance. Elsewhere, Reece James remains sidelined as the right-back missed another training session and is now facing a race against time to prove his fitness.
The FA are yet to reach a verdict on whether to pursue representations over Jarell Quansah’s red card, which rules him out of the Norway fixture.
Meanwhile, Anthony Gordon has hailed the current England squad as the finest group he has ever been a part of “by a country mile.”
The winger was one of the standout performers in England’s remarkable victory over Mexico, a result widely regarded as one of the all-time great wins on foreign soil.
Gordon credits manager Thomas Tuchel with fostering a “brotherhood” within the squad, insisting the mood amongst the players has never been higher.
The England star, speaking on the latest episode of Extra Time, said: “Camp life is amazing. I am absolutely loving it.
“We have got an unbelievable group, the best England group I have been a part of by a country mile, in terms of chemistry, in terms of connection, not just on the pitch but off the pitch.
“In terms of standards off the pitch, we are holding each other accountable, which is really important for any team that wants to be successful.”
Declan Rice and Marc Guehi sat out of training alongside Reece James (Image: Getty)
Gordon has experienced a mixed tournament thus far but has been instrumental in the previous two matches and seems to be finding his rhythm at this World Cup.
He delivered two assists for Harry Kane against DR Congo and earned a penalty against Mexico in an impressive performance, with the England skipper also scoring from the spot.
However, Gordon insists he is keen to contribute more goals as he gears up for life at his new Spanish club next season.
Gordon added: “I love finishing, it’s a big part of my game, I want to be a goalscorer.
“The only way I can truly get to where I want to be is by practising every single day. The more practice allows you to become free in the mind on game day.
“I have been speaking to H (Kane) and trying to gain as much knowledge as I possibly can because he can do it on both feet.
“It doesn’t matter the angle, doesn’t matter off his touch, the ball finds a way into the net. I have been trying to pick up a little bit off him.”
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