England manager Thomas Tuchel is facing a selection headache ahead of the World Cup quarter-final against Norway, with Declan Rice, Marc Guehi, and Reece James all racing against time to be fit.
Declan Rice Sidelined by Illness
Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice has been nursing a muscular issue throughout the tournament, but a sickness bug has now sidelined him. He is currently isolating from the squad to prevent further spread and has missed two training sessions this week, according to team sources.
Rice picked up his muscle problem during the Premier League season but has largely been available for England. He was seen icing his hamstring against DR Congo yet played the entirety of England's historic win over Mexico at the Azteca Stadium. The 27-year-old has formed a key partnership in midfield with Manchester City's Elliot Anderson. If he cannot play, Kobbie Mainoo could step in.
Marc Guehi Hamstring Concern
Centre-back Marc Guehi is also a concern ahead of facing Norway's Erling Haaland, his club teammate at Crystal Palace. Guehi is desperate to prove his fitness and remains optimistic, but if he does not train with the squad on Friday, his involvement this weekend will be seriously doubtful. The issue is not considered serious, but Tuchel can ill-afford to take risks, especially with Haaland posing such a threat. John Stones, Dan Burn, and Trevoh Chalobah are available as alternatives.
Reece James Return Possible
England's backline has been hit hardest by availability issues. Jarell Quansah's red card against Mexico earned a two-game ban, and he had only been drafted into the starting XI after Reece James' injury. James, the first-choice right-back heading into the World Cup, picked up a hamstring injury during the goalless draw with Ghana. He did not finish Thursday's session but could be part of the squad if he feels no further issues.
Norway and Beyond
England are heavy favourites to reach the semi-finals, but Norway have shown an appetite for upsets after eliminating Brazil in the last 16. If England advance, they could face old rivals Argentina, who play Switzerland later on Saturday.
