England predicted XI vs Argentina: Tuchel faces key Rice decision

England are one win away from reaching their first World Cup final since 1966, but Thomas Tuchel still has several major selection decisions to make ahead of Wednesday's semi-final against Argentina.

The biggest concern surrounds Declan Rice, who was forced off at half-time during England's dramatic quarter-final victory over Norway after struggling with illness.

Despite concerns following the Norway match, there is growing optimism that Rice will be available to start against Lionel Messi and Argentina.

Assistant manager Anthony Barry confirmed the Arsenal midfielder was unable to complete 90 minutes because of a sickness bug rather than an injury, and England's medical staff expect him to recover in time.

Should Rice be passed fit, he is expected to partner Elliot Anderson in midfield.

Another major decision concerns Reece James.

The Chelsea captain made his return from injury against Norway, impressing after coming on in midfield before switching to right-back during extra time.

Tuchel must now decide whether to restore James to the starting XI or continue with Ezri Konsa at right-back after another solid defensive display.

On the opposite flank, Djed Spence is pushing for his first start of the tournament after another influential substitute appearance.

The Tottenham defender has become one of England's most effective impact players and could replace Nico O'Reilly, who has been managing a minor hamstring issue.

Further forward, Bukayo Saka has given Tuchel another selection headache.

The Arsenal winger made a lively impact from the bench against Norway, while Noni Madueke struggled to influence the game before being substituted.

England received another boost after four players avoided suspension in the quarter-final.

Rice, Jude Bellingham, Marc Guehi and Nico O'Reilly all entered the Norway match one booking away from missing the semi-final but escaped without yellow cards.

The only absentee remains Jarell Quansah, who serves the second game of his suspension following his red card against Mexico.

Jordan Henderson also remains unavailable after suffering a broken wrist earlier in the tournament.

Jordan Pickford; Reece James, Ezri Konsa, Marc Guehi, Nico O'Reilly; Elliot Anderson, Declan Rice; Bukayo Saka, Jude Bellingham, Anthony Gordon; Harry Kane.

England face Argentina in Atlanta on Wednesday evening, with a place in the 2026 World Cup final at stake. Tuchel is expected to make a late decision on Rice's fitness before confirming his starting XI, while the battles for both full-back positions and the right-wing role are likely to go down to the final training session.

Can England overcome Lionel Messi and book their place in the World Cup final?