Declan Rice is expected to be available for England’s World Cup last-32 tie against DR Congo on Wednesday after recovering from a calf injury.
The Arsenal midfielder was rested for England’s 2-0 victory over Panama after suffering a heavy knock during the goalless draw with Ghana earlier in the week.
Rice was unable to complete England’s full training programme before the Panama match, but returned in time for the final session before the squad travelled to New Jersey.
England boss Thomas Tuchel is optimistic the 27-year-old will be fit enough to return to the starting line-up as the knockout stages begin.
Table of Contents
James and Quansah remain major doubts
While Rice appears on course to feature, Tuchel still has injury concerns elsewhere in his squad.
Reece James missed the win over Panama after sustaining a hamstring injury against Ghana and remains a doubt for the meeting with DR Congo in Atlanta.
The Chelsea defender has not been ruled out completely, but it is understood any return is more likely to come later in the tournament.
Jarell Quansah is also facing a race against time after suffering an ankle injury while filling in at right-back against Panama.
The Bayer Leverkusen defender will continue to be assessed by England’s medical staff, although Tuchel has already admitted it will be “very tight” for him to recover in time for Wednesday’s match.
Right-back dilemma for Tuchel
The injuries to James and Quansah have left Tuchel with a selection headache on the right side of defence.
England were already without Tino Livramento after the Newcastle United defender withdrew from the squad before the tournament with a calf problem.
Djed Spence replaced Quansah during the second half against Panama and is currently the leading candidate to start against DR Congo if neither James nor Quansah can prove their fitness.
Tuchel also has the option of deploying Ezri Konsa at right-back, although the Aston Villa defender is naturally a centre-back.
England topped Group L with seven points from their three matches and will now look to secure a place in the last 16 when they face DR Congo in Atlanta.
You Should Also Read
