Gareth Southgate could hand Reece James a World Cup lifeline later today. England have a provisional opportunity to name a group of 56 players before cutting them down to just 26 before the tournament starts.
The Three Lions are expected to make their announcement later today (Friday, October 21) and the sheer volume of players allowed could give James a boost following his damaging knee injury sustained last week. The 22-year-old was taken off against AC Milan during Chelsea's 2-0 win but found out the following day that it was more serious than first thought.
James didn't need surgery on his knee but is wearing a protective boot for up to four of the eight weeks he is likely to be out for. England's first match of the tournament is exactly one month today against Iran, a match James will definitely miss, but the hope is his recovery will allow him to play a part in the tournament further down the line.
