Declan Rice has declared himself “good as gold” after being substituted late in England’s 2-1 victory over DR Congo, alleviating concerns over a potential injury ahead of the World Cup 2026 last-16 tie against Mexico.
Rice forced off in stoppage time
The Arsenal midfielder, who returned to the starting XI for the round of 32 match in Atlanta after being rested for the final Group L fixture against Panama, was visibly struggling with a knock in stoppage time and was replaced by John Stones. The substitution came after Rice had been moved from his natural midfield role to right-back in the 70th minute as head coach Thomas Tuchel sought an equaliser.
Despite the positional change and the physical toll, Rice told reporters: “I'm fine. Good as gold. Good. It's what happens when you play in 30 degree heat I suppose. Tough game. Give it everything and bodies been through a lot in that match. Time to recover and go again.”
Tuchel's gamble pays off
Tuchel’s decision to shift Rice to right-back and introduce attacking changes paid off, with Harry Kane scoring twice to complete a comeback victory. However, Rice’s late injury scare had briefly put England’s preparations for the Mexico clash in doubt.
Reflecting on his stint at full-back, Rice said: “It was probably the hardest 12 minutes of the game having a stint at right back. In games like that it was probably too much of a basketball match at times, back and forth, and we had to take the sting out of it because they have fast wingers.”
Rice ready for Mexico showdown
The 26-year-old admitted that playing out of position is not his biggest strength, but he was willing to do whatever the team needed. “I have played there two or three times this season, I know the role, it is probably not my biggest strength but to do anything for the team and the manager. 12 minutes left I said I would do my best and I think I did well there. Let's see what happens next game but hopefully I don't have to be at right back,” he added.
