Reece James makes injury return as England reach World Cup semi-final
Reece James returned from injury as England beat Norway 2-1 after extra time to reach the 2026 World Cup semi-finals.
The Chelsea captain started Saturday’s quarter-final on the bench in Miami. Blues team-mate Trevoh Chalobah was also among Thomas Tuchel’s substitutes.
Norway took the lead through Andreas Schjelderup in the first half. However, Jude Bellingham equalised before the interval after collecting Anthony Gordon’s pass.
James entered in the 71st minute as Gordon made way. The 26-year-old initially joined Elliot Anderson in central midfield before later moving to right-back.
His appearance came after Thomas Tuchel confirmed James had returned to England training following a hamstring problem.
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England faced several difficult moments before taking the game into extra time.
Torbjorn Heggem had a header ruled out following a push by Erling Haaland. David Moller Wolfe also struck the crossbar as Norway threatened to regain the lead.
England scored the winner three minutes into extra time. Morgan Rogers’ powerful effort was parried by Orjan Nyland, allowing Bellingham to convert the rebound.
James remained on the pitch as England protected their advantage. Chalobah was an unused substitute during the 2-1 quarter-final victory.
For Chelsea, James’ successful return was the main positive. He completed almost 50 minutes across two positions without suffering an obvious setback.
His versatility could also interest Xabi Alonso. James can operate at right-back, wing-back or in midfield when Chelsea need greater control in possession.
England will now play Argentina or Switzerland in Atlanta on Wednesday. James has put himself in contention for another role as Tuchel’s side chase a place in the World Cup final.
