Who replaces James? Rest Rice? Have your say ahead of Panama vs England!

England face Panama in their final Group L fixture at MetLife Stadium on Saturday, a match that will decide who tops the group and who finishes second. The Three Lions have already secured their place in the knockout stages, but the identity of their likely right-back starter remains unresolved after a late injury to James. With no official confirmation on his replacement, speculation has centred on Rice’s deployment in defence, a tactical shift that could reshape England’s approach against a Panama side seeking their first World Cup win.

Why James’ absence matters now

James’ withdrawal from the squad, confirmed just hours before the match, has created an immediate tactical headache for Gareth Southgate. The Liverpool defender had been expected to start at right-back, a position he has occupied regularly in qualifying and pre-tournament friendlies. His absence forces Southgate into a rethink at a pivotal moment, with Panama’s attacking threat—particularly through their overlapping wingers—demanding defensive solidity.

Rice, who has played in midfield throughout the tournament so far, now looks the most likely candidate to fill the void. The Arsenal midfielder has experience at right-back in domestic football, though not in a World Cup setting. His deployment there would likely push a midfielder like Bellingham or Phillips into deeper roles, altering England’s usual midfield balance. The question is whether Southgate trusts Rice to handle the physical demands of the position against a Panama side that has shown pace and directness in their opening matches.

Panama’s fight for pride and progression

Panama arrive in New Jersey with nothing to lose but everything to gain. A win would secure their first-ever World Cup victory and potentially set up a high-stakes knockout tie against a group winner. Their opening defeat to England was narrow, and they pushed Croatia hard in their second match, showing resilience and tactical organisation. A draw against England would be a historic achievement, while a loss could still leave them in contention for a top-two finish if results elsewhere go their way.

Manager Thomas Christiansen has rotated his squad effectively, using fresh legs to maintain intensity. The likes of Fajardo and Waterman have provided steel in midfield, while the forward line of Díaz and Murillo offers direct running. England’s defence will need to be alert to quick transitions, as Panama have shown they can punish lapses in concentration.

Tactical chess: Southgate’s options

Southgate’s starting XI will hinge on how he addresses the right-back issue. If Rice is deployed there, England may switch to a back three in possession, with Rice tucking in to form a three-man defence alongside Stones and Maguire. This would allow Walker to push higher up the pitch, adding width in attack. Alternatively, a more conservative approach could see Southgate opt for a double pivot in midfield, with Rice retained in his usual role and a third central midfielder added to shore up the defence.

The midfield battle will be crucial. England’s ability to control the tempo and transition quickly will determine whether they can exploit Panama’s defensive frailties. Bellingham’s energy and Rice’s box-to-box ability could be pivotal, while the front three—likely featuring Kane, Foden, and Saka—will look to stretch play and create chances. Panama’s midfield, led by Escobar, will aim to disrupt the rhythm, forcing England into mistakes.

One thing is certain: England cannot afford to underestimate their opponents. Panama have shown they belong on this stage, and a motivated side with nothing to lose is always dangerous. Southgate’s choices in the coming hours will shape England’s approach, but the pressure to perform remains squarely on the players.

As kick-off approaches, the focus shifts to the MetLife Stadium turf. The outcome will decide who tops Group L, but the real story may be how England adapt to an unexpected defensive reshuffle. One thing is clear: the Three Lions cannot afford to take Panama lightly, no matter the personnel changes.