England could be without defender Marc Guehi for their FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-final against Norway, with the Crystal Palace centre-back still recovering from a hamstring issue. The team will make a final decision after assessing him in training on Friday, ahead of Saturday’s knockout clash.

How Marc Guehi got injured?

Guehi picked up a minor hamstring injury during England’s thrilling 3-2 win over Mexico in the Round of 16 at the Azteca Stadium. Because of the injury, he missed Wednesday’s training session and instead followed an individual fitness programme.

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Declan Rice also did not train with the squad for a second straight day after falling ill with a sickness bug. The England midfielder is now in a race against time to prove his fitness before the quarter-final.

Reece James returned for training

There was some good news for England, though. Reece James returned to training on Thursday after recovering from the hamstring injury he suffered during the goalless group-stage draw against Ghana. The Chelsea defender had also missed England’s dramatic victory over Mexico.

Guehi’s availability now depends on Friday’s training session. If he is unable to join the squad, his chances of featuring against Norway will be very slim.

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England coach on Guehi's injury

England head coach Thomas Tuchel is already dealing with selection problems in defence. Right-back Jarell Quansah will miss the match after receiving a red card against Mexico. The Bayer Leverkusen defender has been suspended for the next two games.

His absence is a major setback, especially with Norway striker Erling Haaland in outstanding form. The Manchester City forward has already scored seven goals in the tournament and will be England’s biggest threat.

Meanwhile, experienced midfielder Jordan Henderson has rejoined the England camp after undergoing successful surgery on the wrist injury he suffered while celebrating the winning goal against Mexico.

England confirmed that Henderson is recovering with the squad in Kansas City instead of returning home.

England’s focus is now fully on Saturday’s quarter-final against Norway at Miami Stadium. The winners will book a place in the semi-finals, where they will face either Argentina or Switzerland.