Nico O’Reilly, who played for Manchester City at left-back last season, is also in the squad but came through his ranks at the Etihad Stadium as a midfielder. Dan Byrne also played at left back but is considered a centre-back.
Spence and centre-backs Jarel Quansah and Konsa are Tuchel’s alternative options at right-back.
However, Tuchel said: “Yes, I am happy (with my options at right-back). I have chosen the team, so I am very happy with all the characteristics of the players and the strengths they give us.
“We would like every key player to be available, but that’s not the case – we find solutions, that’s what we do. This is a tournament, we move on.”
Tuchel, however, is confident James will play again at the World Cup.
“It’s a small hamstring problem, he hasn’t been able to train for the last two days,” the German confirmed.
“He’s currently on an accelerated rehabilitation program and we’re taking it game by game, but we’re very confident he’ll be available (during the tournament).”
There was more good news regarding the availability of Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice and Elliot Anderson, who Tuchel said would be available to face Panama.
Rice (calves) and Anderson (glutes) missed Thursday’s practice but returned Friday.
Tuchel confirmed Saka is ready to start after leaving the bench for the first two matches with a long-term complaint of Achilles tendinitis.