Declan Rice has reassured England supporters that he is fit for the World Cup last-16 clash against Mexico after being forced off late in the dramatic 2-1 victory over DR Congo.
The Arsenal midfielder sparked concern when he was substituted during stoppage time after appearing to struggle with a knock. With England preparing for one of their biggest matches of the tournament, Thomas Tuchel briefly faced the prospect of losing one of his most influential players.
However, Rice quickly dismissed fears over his fitness after the final whistle.
Rice insists he is “good as gold”
Speaking after England completed their comeback victory, Rice revealed there is no lasting injury concern despite the demanding conditions in Atlanta.
“I’m fine. Good as gold. Good.
“It’s what happens when you play in 30-degree heat I suppose. Tough game. Give it everything and bodies been through a lot in that match.
“Time to recover and go again.”
— Declan Rice
The midfielder’s comments will come as a major boost for Tuchel, who relies heavily on Rice’s leadership and versatility in the heart of England’s midfield.
Tuchel’s tactical gamble tested Rice
Rice’s evening became even more demanding after Tuchel reshuffled his side in pursuit of an equaliser.
The England vice-captain moved from central midfield to right-back in the 70th minute as the manager introduced more attacking players, leaving Rice to help protect against DR Congo’s dangerous counter-attacks.
The switch ultimately proved successful, with Harry Kane scoring twice to send England through to the knockout stages.
Reflecting on the unfamiliar role, Rice admitted it was one of the toughest spells of the match.
“It was probably the hardest 12 minutes of the game having a stint at right-back.
“I have played there two or three times this season, I know the role. It is probably not my biggest strength but to do anything for the team and the manager.
“Let’s see what happens next game but hopefully I don’t have to be at right-back.”
— Declan Rice
Positive news before Mexico showdown
Rice's fitness update removes one of the biggest concerns surrounding England ahead of their meeting with Mexico.
Having been rested for the final Group L match against Panama, the Arsenal star returned to the starting line-up against DR Congo and once again demonstrated his importance, even while operating in an unfamiliar position late in the game.
Rice has remained one of Tuchel's most consistent performers. His availability gives England greater balance in midfield as they prepare to face one of the tournament's strongest teams.
However, Tuchel will still assess his squad over the coming days after an exhausting contest played in challenging temperatures.
What's next?
England now turn their attention to a blockbuster last-16 clash against Mexico at the Azteca Stadium.
Tuchel is expected to provide a further squad fitness update before the match, but Rice's own assessment suggests he should be available for selection. England will hope to build on their dramatic comeback against DR Congo, although a sharper performance is likely to be required against a Mexico side that has impressed throughout the tournament.
Do you think Declan Rice should remain exclusively in midfield against Mexico, or has he shown enough versatility to fill in elsewhere if needed?
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