Declan Rice Expected to Feature Against Mexico
Declan Rice is expected to be fit for England’s upcoming World Cup knockout match, despite battling a persistent injury that has caused him significant discomfort. The Arsenal midfielder, who has been managing a neural issue affecting his hamstring and lower back, is currently in contention to start Sunday’s fixture.
The Toll of the Round of 32
The severity of the issue became apparent during England’s 2-1 victory over DR Congo. Rice was substituted in injury time, a decision prompted by the physical toll of the match. England manager Thomas Tuchel confirmed the extent of the player’s discomfort following the win, stating, “I asked him. He said: ‘I can do it for the team but I am in terrible pain.’ When Declan tells you he is in terrible pain then you know he cannot take it any more.”
Defensive Concerns for Tuchel
While Rice appears set to feature, the status of other key squad members remains uncertain. Chelsea right-back Reece James has missed the team’s last two matches due to a hamstring injury. According to reports, James has yet to return to full training ahead of the clash with Mexico. Jarell Quansah, who serves as back-up at right-back, also faces a race against time to be fit. Quansah was absent from the squad for the victory over DR Congo due to an ankle injury. While he has increased his training intensity as part of his recovery, his availability for the Sunday tie has not yet been confirmed by the coaching staff.
Logistics and Final Assessments
The match is currently scheduled for Sunday at 18:00 local time (01:00 BST on Monday), though officials have indicated that the start time remains subject to change depending on weather conditions. England’s medical team is expected to continue monitoring the progress of Rice, James, and Quansah in the final training sessions leading up to the weekend. The squad’s final lineup will be finalized pending these late fitness assessments.
Match Facts
- Fixture: England vs. Mexico (World Cup Round of 16)
- Scheduled Kick-off: Sunday, 18:00 local time (01:00 BST, Monday)
- Primary Injury Concerns: Declan Rice (hamstring/back), Reece James (hamstring), Jarell Quansah (ankle)