Thomas Tuchel has been dealt a fresh fitness concern ahead of England's final World Cup group-stage fixture after Reece James and Declan Rice both missed training on Thursday.
The Three Lions returned to their Kansas City base following Tuesday's frustrating goalless draw with Ghana, with preparations now turning towards Saturday's meeting with Panama at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
However, neither James nor Rice took part in the session held two days before the crucial Group L encounter, leaving Tuchel with decisions to make as England attempt to secure top spot and a place in the knockout stages.
James is to be the bigger concern of the two.
The Chelsea defender sustained a minor hamstring issue during England's stalemate with Ghana and his condition will continue to be monitored over the coming days.
Even if the 26-year-old is passed fit, Tuchel may decide against risking him against opponents ranked 42nd in the world, particularly given James has already featured in two matches within the space of a week.
The England manager has consistently managed James carefully since taking charge, mindful of the injury problems that have disrupted the full-back's career in recent seasons.
Thomas Tuchel has been dealt a fresh fitness concern ahead of England's final World Cup group-stage fixture after Reece James and Declan Rice both missed training on Thursday
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Reece James and Declan Rice have started both of England's World Cup matches so far
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Should James be rested, Tuchel has several alternatives available.
Bayer Leverkusen defender Jarell Quansah is capable of filling in at right-back, while Djed Spence could also be handed an opportunity after impressing during his appearances for Tottenham last season.
Nico O'Reilly, who struck the crossbar after coming off the bench against Ghana, is another option at left-back if Tuchel decides to reshuffle his defensive line.
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England dominated the statistics but could not find a goal against Ghana | GETTY/GBNEWSRice's absence from training is less alarming, however.
The Arsenal midfielder was seen wearing strapping on his left calf after the Ghana match and is believed to have suffered a dead leg during the contest.
The 27-year-old has endured a gruelling campaign, with the draw in Boston representing his 64th appearance of the season for club and country.
Despite playing through discomfort against Ghana, Rice is keen to play if Tuchel decides to use him.
Nevertheless, the England boss could opt to rotate his midfield regardless, with qualification for the knockout rounds still within reach.
Rice also picked up a yellow card against Ghana, meaning another booking against Panama would trigger a suspension for England's opening knockout fixture should they progress.
Declan Rice looked dejected at full-time as England failed to beat Ghana | GETTYThat disciplinary situation may encourage Tuchel to preserve one of his most influential players ahead of the latter stages of the tournament, with Kobbie Mainoo potentially in line to feature.
Mainoo flourished under Michael Carrick last season at Manchester United, with the youngster previously on the fringes of the action during Ruben Amorim's time in charge.
England remain top of Group L despite failing to overcome Ghana and know victory over Panama would guarantee first place.
Tuchel's squad are due to train once more on Friday before travelling to New York ahead of Saturday's showdown.
England last faced Panama at the 2018 World Cup, with Harry Kane scoring a hat-trick in an emphatic 6-1 win.
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