Thomas Tuchel has revealed that Declan Rice was in “terrible pain” following England’s win over DR Congo, but the midfielder is not injured and is expected to recover in time to face Mexico in the round of 16.
Rice's fitness update
Rice looked tired for long periods at Atlanta Stadium as England came from behind to defeat DR Congo, securing a meeting at the historic Azteca Stadium on Sunday. The midfielder was substituted during England’s opening game against Croatia after a flare-up of “neural pain” in his hamstring, an issue he has carried since December.
Against DR Congo, Rice moved to right-back with 15 minutes to play as England hunted for two goals, before being taken off after Harry Kane’s second. Rice appeared to be holding the back of his leg when replaced by John Stones but left the stadium in good spirits.
Tuchel's comments on Rice's condition
Questioned on whether Rice needs to be managed from game to game, Tuchel replied: “I asked him. He said: ‘I can do it for the team but I am in terrible pain’, and when Declan tells you he is in terrible pain then you know he cannot take it anymore. He was grateful we took him off but he said after the game it is not an issue. There is no injury. I think he will recover. He was just in pain and I hope he is right. It’s more neural pain.”
England's upcoming match against Mexico
England fans will hope Rice’s recovery is swift and that he can start alongside Elliot Anderson again in midfield when the Three Lions face Mexico for a place in the quarter-finals on Sunday. Mexico have won all four of their games at this World Cup without conceding a goal.
