England defender Jarell Quansah has been suspended for two matches following his red card offense against Mexico in the World Cup round of 16. The suspension was handed down on Thursday, meaning Quansah will miss England's quarterfinal match against Norway in Miami Gardens on Saturday and also the semifinals if Thomas Tuchel's team advances.
Quansah was sent off in the second half of England's 3-2 victory against Mexico on Sunday for a dangerous foul on Jesus Gallardo. FIFA confirmed the two-match suspension for serious foul play.
The decision comes amidst controversy over FIFA's handling of red card punishments, particularly after the disciplinary committee suspended the one-game penalty of star United States striker Folarin Balogun after President Donald Trump intervened and contacted FIFA President Gianni Infantino.
Infantino defended the independence of FIFA’s disciplinary committee and insisted the Balogun case was properly handled.
Ongoing Right Back Concerns
Quansah's suspension is the latest issue for Tuchel to contend with at right back, a position that has been plagued by injuries and uncertainty throughout the tournament.
First choice Reece James has not played since England’s second game of the tournament against Ghana due to a hamstring injury. His backup, Tino Livramento, was sent home before England even kicked off its campaign after injuring his calf.
Tuchel opted to call up a center back in Trevoh Chalobah as his replacement, rather than going for a specialist right back. This meant Quansah, who usually plays in central defense, has taken on the role of deputy to James.
Tuchel faced questions before the World Cup about leaving out Real Madrid right back Trent Alexander-Arnold, who is widely regarded as one of the top players in Europe.
