Declan Rice is on track to recover in time for the crucial clash between England and Argentina in the World Cup semi-finals, scheduled for Wednesday in Atlanta. The Arsenal midfielder has overcome a stomach illness that disrupted his preparations for the quarter-final match against Norway, providing a significant boost to the England team.
According to The Times, Rice has made significant progress after suffering from food poisoning that left him bedridden for nearly three days. Despite the challenges, the 27-year-old insisted on starting the game against Norway, beginning in the starting eleven, but was substituted at halftime due to his performance being hampered by the illness. England manager, Thomas Tuchel, acknowledged after the match that the vice-captain “had little chance of lasting the 90 minutes” given his physical condition.
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In addition to food poisoning, Rice has been dealing with nerve issues affecting his thigh tendon and lower back, which raised concerns about his availability for England's most important challenge since the 2018 World Cup semi-finals. However, those doubts now seem to have dissipated, with the midfielder close to returning to the starting lineup alongside Elliot Anderson in the English national team's midfield.
If used, Rice will achieve his 79th international cap for the Three Lions. Meanwhile, the coaching staff is monitoring the condition of Ezri Konsa, a defender for Aston Villa, who had to leave the match against Norway due to cramping, but remains doubtful for the upcoming game. Reece James is pushing for a return to the starting eleven after an encouraging performance in the last match, while Bukayo Saka has bolstered his chances of starting by showing good form as a substitute.
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Tuchel now faces a pleasant selection dilemma for this crucial encounter in Atlanta, on a night that could mark a decisive turning point for England in the World Cup. The confirmation of Rice's recovery is significant news for the English, who are looking to secure a place in the final against an Argentina side that promises to be a formidable opponent.
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