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Declan Rice fit to start for England v Argentina

The Arsenal midfielder trained with England on Tuesday, but questions remain over how long he can last if the tie goes the distance.

Declan Rice #4 of England prior to the FIFA World Cup 2026 Quarter Final match between Norway and England at Miami Stadium on July 11, 2026 in Miami Gardens, Florida.
Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images

Declan Rice is expected to start for England against Argentina, although it remains unclear whether the Arsenal midfielder will be able to play the full 90 minutes, let alone extra time if the World Cup semi-final goes the distance.

Rice has endured a demanding season, to say the least, and arrived at this tournament stuck together with tape.

He has been managing hamstring and back problems throughout the World Cup and, just before England’s quarter-final against Norway, was also struck down by illness.

The midfielder started that match but was well below his usual standards before being substituted at half-time.

Declan Rice #4 of England looks on during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Quarter Final match between Norway and England at Miami Stadium on July 11, 2026 in Miami Gardens, Florida.
Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images

Now, as England prepare to face Argentina for a place in the World Cup final against Spain, reports in England indicate that Rice is fit enough to start.

The 27-year-old took part in England’s open training session on Tuesday, a positive sign ahead of one of the biggest matches of the tournament.

Rice has played 68 matches since the start of last season, highlighting the workload he has carried for club and country.

Declan Rice #4 and Jude Bellingham #10 of England attend a training session one day ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Semi Final match at Swope Soccer Village on July 14, 2026 in Kansas City, Missouri.
Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images
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