Declan Rice’s fitness has come under scrutiny after the Arsenal midfielder appeared to struggle during England’s World Cup quarter-final victory over Norway. Former Three Lions defender Lee Dixon observed that Rice looked “energy-depleted” in the first half, while pundits Gary Neville and Ian Wright noted he “didn’t look right”.
Rice had been battling a bug and a persistent hamstring issue in order to be available for selection. The 27-year-old managed the problem to help Arsenal secure their first Premier League title in 20 years and has been playing through pain for Thomas Tuchel’s side. He was rested for the final group stage match against Panama.
During the quarter-final, Rice was substituted at half-time, replaced by Eberechi Eze. Neville questioned whether Rice was fit to start, pointing out his struggles with corners. Wright echoed the sentiment, saying his set-pieces indicated something was off. Dixon added that Rice’s body language and slow approach to taking a corner suggested he was not at his best.
England fell behind when Andreas Schjelderup’s cross-cum-shot caught Jordan Pickford off guard, but Jude Bellingham equalised before half-time. Norway had a goal disallowed for a foul by Erling Haaland after a VAR review. Despite the win, Rice’s condition remains a concern ahead of the next World Cup fixtures.
