Guehi in Race Against Time for England’s World Cup Quarterfinal Against Norway

England defender Marc Guehi is facing a serious fitness battle ahead of Saturday’s World Cup quarterfinal against Norway after picking up a hamstring strain in the victory over Mexico. Guehi missed England’s final training session at the Swope Soccer base in Kansas City, though head coach Thomas Tuchel hasn’t completely ruled him out of the starting lineup just yet. The Manchester City center-back was seen walking around the pitch but did not train with the squad. While the injury is not believed to be severe, time is running out for Guehi to prove he can play. If Guehi cannot start, Dan Burn is pushing for a place in the defense. Burn came off the bench in the 75th minute at the Estadio Azteca and put in a commanding performance, making six clearances — the most by any substitute at a World Cup since 1966. His display has impressed Tuchel as he looks for ways to deal with the physical threat of Norway striker Erling Haaland. Elsewhere, Declan Rice and Reece James remain concerns. Rice has been isolated from the squad due to a stomach illness picked up after the Mexico trip, but England’s medical staff are confident he will be available for the quarterfinal after receiving fluids and medication. No other players have been affected. Reece James is desperate to play and feels ready, but his hamstring problem has kept him out of training for almost three weeks. Tuchel must decide whether to risk the right-back after consulting his medical team later today, with the real danger that aggravating the injury could end the defender’s tournament. England also have a suspension to deal with. Jarell Quansah – sent off for a serious foul on Jesus Gallardo during the last-16 win over Mexico – has been handed a two-match ban by FIFA. The ruling means Quansah will miss Saturday’s quarterfinal in Miami and a potential semifinal against either Argentina or Switzerland. FIFA confirmed the ban under Article 14 of its disciplinary code for “serious foul play.” The Football Association could not appeal the red card but has voiced its concerns about the VAR process. Norway striker Erling Haaland, meanwhile, has turned up the heat on England ahead of the clash. The Manchester City forward, born in Leeds, has scored seven goals in five games at this World Cup. Speaking to reporters in Miami, Haaland said: “I think there’s some clear favourites out there, England’s one of them. I think all of you should put every single pressure on the English lads.” He described the quarterfinal as a “special game” because of his ties to England and the number of teammates he will face.