Declan Rice is set to be available for England’s World Cup semi-final against Argentina, despite struggling with an illness over the last week.
Sami Mokbel reported for the BBC on Monday night that England will make a late decision on whether to start Declan Rice against Argentina, but there’s optimism he can shake off the effects of his recent illness.
Mokbel reports that Rice suffered with a sickness bug ahead of Saturday’s quarter-final, and he still hasn’t fully recovered. But his condition has significantly improved in the last couple of days, and there’s growing hope he’ll be well enough to start the semi-final.
As for Rice himself, he’s almost certain to make himself available. It’s just a question of whether the England medics and Thomas Tuchel agree with the player’s assessment.
Other media outlets have since provided an even more optimistic take on the situation, with Craig Hope reporting for the Daily Mail that Rice has recovered from illness, rejoined training, and he’s ready to feature in the Argentina match.
The player is apparently feeling much better, and he’s confident of starting the game.
Sky Sports News are also claiming that Rice is fit and available to start, pointing out that whilst Rice missed training ahead of the quarter-final, he trained fully on Monday.
Rice’s availability will be a boost for England, particularly if he’s now back to his best. It was admirable that the midfielder tried to play a part against Norway, but he was clearly still feeling the effects of his illness at the time.
Given England are now in a semi-final and taking on the reigning champions, they can’t afford to start any players operating at 50% this time around.
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