Rice’s fitness concerns and versatility
England head coach Thomas Tuchel has indicated that Declan Rice is anticipated to be available for the FIFA World Cup last-16 match against Mexico. This comes despite the midfielder experiencing what Tuchel described as “terrible pain” due to an ongoing nerve issue in his back. Rice was substituted late in England‘s 2-1 victory over DR Congo in the last 32, a match where his versatility was highlighted.
Throughout the tournament, the 27-year-old has been managing various fitness challenges, including a calf injury that led him to miss the final group-stage game against Panama, as well as hamstring and back problems. These issues have necessitated the use of compression sleeves on his legs. Tuchel noted that Rice‘s resilience and stamina are well-known, and his admission of “terrible pain” signals the seriousness of the discomfort he is enduring.
During the match against DR Congo, with England trailing 1-0 after an early goal from Brian Cipenga, Tuchel made a tactical adjustment, moving Rice to right-back to accommodate an additional forward, Eberechi Eze. This strategic shift proved effective, contributing to England‘s comeback. Rice, who joined Arsenal for a reported £100 million in 2023, acknowledged that playing at right-back was challenging, describing it as “probably the hardest 12 minutes of the game.” He expressed a preference not to play in that position in future matches, though he is willing to do anything for the team.
Manager’s comments and team’s defensive situation
Tuchel confirmed that Rice had assured him the pain was not indicative of an injury and that he expected to recover. “He just said after the game it’s not an issue, he will recover, so there is no injury. He was just in pain, so I hope he is right. It’s more nerval pain,” Tuchel stated. When asked if Rice could continue to manage the pain from game to game, Tuchel responded affirmatively, “He can, yeah.”
The coach’s primary focus remains on having Rice available for the upcoming fixture at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City. England‘s defensive options have been affected by injuries to other players. Reece James and Jarell Quansah are currently sidelined, with James having started England‘s first two matches before a hamstring issue ruled him out of subsequent games. Quansah, who deputised at right-back against Panama, was forced off due to an ankle injury and also missed the last-32 victory.
Tuchel provided an update on the recovery of James and Quansah, noting that both are making good progress and are nearing a return. He mentioned that Quansah is slightly ahead in his recovery compared to James. The team also lost Tino Livramento to a calf injury before the tournament began. The potential return of James and Quansah could offer more defensive stability for England as they progress in the competition.
Mexico, the co-hosts, have demonstrated strong form, securing four wins from four matches without conceding a goal. Their 2-0 victory over Ecuador in the last 32 marked their first knockout stage win in a World Cup in 40 years. Mexico has a notable record at Estadio Azteca, remaining unbeaten in 10 World Cup matches played there, with eight wins and two draws. The upcoming match against England will be held at the Azteca Stadium on Sunday.
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Source: tntsports.co.uk
Lucy Ashby is a Sports Reporter at NewsGB. She reported on the county circuit and Team GB. She focuses on tennis, cricket and athletics and is known for clear, deadline-driven reporting. She holds a degree in Sport and Media from Durham University and completed an NCTJ diploma. Now based in Durham, she plays club cricket and follows distance running. “The best sport reporting starts by listening.”
