England face defensive crisis as Marc Guehi doubtful for quater-final against Norway

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England face defensive crisis as Marc Guehi doubtful for quater-final against Norway

Marc Guehi of England (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)

England have been dealt a significant injury concern ahead of their FIFA World Cup quarter-final against Norway, with Marc Guehi emerging as a major doubt for Saturday's clash in Miami.

The Manchester City centre-back is nursing a hamstring strain sustained during England's dramatic 3-2 extra-time victory over Mexico in the Round of 16.Manager Thomas Tuchel is facing a growing selection headache at a crucial stage of the tournament. Guehi has been absent from England's training sessions this week and is set to undergo a final fitness test on Friday to determine whether he can feature against Norway.

England's defensive options have already been weakened by the suspension of Jarell Quansah. The young defender received a straight red card during the win over Mexico and has been handed a two-match suspension by FIFA, ruling him out of the quarter-final.The concerns are not limited to the backline. Midfield lynchpin Declan Rice is also racing against time to recover after being struck down by a severe illness, raising further doubts over England's balance in midfield.

There is, however, some positive news for Tuchel. Reece James has returned to full training after recovering from injury and could be available for selection, providing an important boost on the right flank.Should Guehi fail to recover in time, Tuchel is expected to turn to experienced defenders John Stones or Dan Burn to partner in central defence. Whoever gets the nod will face one of the toughest assignments in world football, stopping Norway's prolific striker Erling Haaland, who has already netted seven goals at the tournament.

England vs Norway in Miami

England and Norway will battle for a place in the FIFA World Cup semi-finals in what promises to be one of the standout fixtures of the tournament. While the Three Lions have shown resilience by edging past Mexico in a thrilling Round of 16 encounter, their preparations have been overshadowed by injuries and suspensions in key areas of the squad.Norway, meanwhile, have looked increasingly dangerous with every passing game, spearheaded by the red-hot Erling Haaland. The Manchester City forward has been virtually unstoppable, scoring seven goals in the competition and leading an attack capable of troubling any defence.

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