Declan Rice has shaken off illness in time to make himself available for England’s World Cup semi-final showdown against Argentina.
Rice's fitness battle
The Three Lions’ influential vice-captain has had to battle fatigue, a stomach bug, calf issues and long-term neural pain in his hamstring and lower back during England’s eventful run to the last four in North America this summer.
The Arsenal midfielder was substituted at half-time during Saturday’s tense quarter-final win over Norway in Miami, replaced by Gunners team-mate Eberechi Eze. While England head coach Thomas Tuchel said that was due to his desire to make a positive tactical switch, Rice looked exhausted as he left the stadium after the match.
Recovery and availability
He spent most of the three days leading up to the Norway game in bed due to a stomach bug. But Standard Sport understands that Rice is set to be ready to play in Wednesday’s blockbuster semi-final tie against defending champions Argentina at Atlanta Stadium.
Rice - who was also taken off in the Group L opener against Croatia and later rested for the win over Panama - started to feel better once England returned to their Kansas City training base following the extra-time victory over Norway, sealed by two goals from Jude Bellingham.
Referee appointment
It has been confirmed by FIFA that American official Ismail Elfath will be the referee for England’s clash with Argentina. The Major League Soccer (MLS) referee awarded Brazil two penalties in their shock last-16 defeat by Norway, also taking charge of the Netherlands’ dramatic draw with Japan during the group stage and Spain’s feisty win over Uruguay.
