Thomas Tuchel praises Reece James after impressive England return at World Cup

Reece James marked his return from injury with an influential display as England booked their place in the World Cup semi-finals, earning special praise from manager Thomas Tuchel after the dramatic 2-1 extra-time victory over Norway.

The Chelsea captain had missed England's previous three matches after picking up an injury against Panama, but was introduced during the second half and quickly reminded everyone why Tuchel rates him so highly.

James replaced Anthony Gordon in the 71st minute with England chasing a place in the last four.

Rather than slotting straight into his usual role at right-back, the 26-year-old was initially used in central midfield before moving back into defence late in normal time following Morgan Rogers' introduction. He then remained at right-back throughout extra-time as England secured victory thanks to Jude Bellingham's second goal of the night.

Although James played just 49 minutes, his influence was clear.

He completed 27 of his 30 passes, registered 46 touches, delivered two corners, and finished with 12 completed passes into the final third—more than every England player except Elliot Anderson, Anthony Gordon and Marc Guehi, all of whom spent significantly longer on the pitch.

It was exactly the kind of composed cameo England had been missing during his absence.

After the match, Tuchel highlighted the impact made by several players from the bench, reserving particular praise for James.

"Very good. Reece James was excellent. Morgan Rogers was fantastic. Eberechi Eze grew into the game. Djed Spence grew into the game. Full credit to them, but overall we got lucky today.

"It's about the score, but it's also about quality. We will get better. We need to get better. Now is all about the celebration. Take it all in.

"We have three days. We need everything. We need a better performance."

The England boss was pleased with the result but admitted there is still room for improvement ahead of the semi-final.

James' return could hardly have come at a better time.

England have relied heavily on the Chelsea defender throughout the tournament, with the 26-year-old starting the opening two matches before injury briefly interrupted his campaign. His versatility against Norway, comfortably switching between midfield and right-back, gives Tuchel another tactical option heading into the latter stages of the competition.

Having followed England throughout this tournament, James' calmness in possession and ability to control the tempo stood out immediately after coming on. While he is still working his way back to full match sharpness, his performance suggested he could have a decisive role to play if England are to go all the way.

England now have just three days to prepare for their World Cup semi-final against Argentina. James is expected to be available again after coming through his return unscathed, giving Tuchel a welcome selection boost as the Three Lions move to within one match of the final.

Can Reece James help fire England into the World Cup final, or should Tuchel continue to manage his minutes carefully?