Declan Rice fitness concern gives Tuchel major Norway decision

Thomas Tuchel has been warned against taking an unnecessary risk with Declan Rice when England face Norway in their World Cup quarter-final.

Former England captain Stuart Pearce believes Rice should only start Saturday’s match in Miami if the midfielder is fit enough to avoid aggravating the physical issue he has carried through the tournament.

The Arsenal star completed the full match as England beat Mexico in a dramatic last-16 tie, but concerns remain over a neural problem affecting his hamstring and lower back.

Rice has been dealing with the issue since Christmas and also missed England’s final group match against Panama because of a calf problem.

Despite those concerns, the 27-year-old remains central to Tuchel’s midfield and played throughout the victory over Mexico after previously featuring against DR Congo in the round of 32.

Pearce believes the key question is not whether Rice can play, but whether another demanding match could cause a more serious problem.

“The only thing that might be a consideration to him is the injury,” Pearce told talkSPORT.

“Is that going to do him more damage and is he likely to break down? If there is a risk there, I think you’d be foolish as a manager to play him.”

Former Aston Villa striker Gabby Agbonlahor agreed that Rice does not appear to be fully fit, although his performances have shown few obvious signs of the problem.

Leaving Rice out would create another issue for England because of the influence Martin Odegaard could have on the quarter-final.

The Norway captain played a major role in his country’s victory over Brazil, and Agbonlahor believes England need Rice alongside Elliot Anderson to compete for control of midfield.

Kobbie Mainoo is another option available to Tuchel, but the Manchester United midfielder has yet to play a minute at the tournament.

Rice is also one booking away from missing a potential semi-final. Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, Marc Guehi and Nico O’Reilly face the same suspension risk.

Tuchel also has a major selection issue at right-back.

Reece James has missed England’s last three matches with a hamstring injury, while Djed Spence has struggled in the position. Jarell Quansah is suspended after his red card against Mexico.

Rice’s versatility means he could theoretically be considered for the role, but Agbonlahor believes moving him out of midfield would weaken England in the area where Norway could pose their biggest threat.

Tuchel must assess Rice’s condition before deciding whether the midfielder can safely start against Norway.

England need their strongest possible side for a World Cup quarter-final, but the risk of losing Rice to a more serious injury could influence one of Tuchel’s biggest selection calls of the tournament.

Should England risk Rice against Norway if he is not fully fit?