England midfielder Declan Rice was seen with heavy strapping on his calf and hobbling following their goalless stalemate with Ghana at the World Cup. The 27-year-old played the full 90 minutes against the Black Stars, but his movement through the mixed zone raised concerns about his long-term availability.
Rice's Fitness Struggles
Rice has been managing a series of fitness concerns throughout the tournament, including calf-related troubles. His participation against Panama is now in doubt after he was observed with substantial strapping on his left calf and moving tentatively.
England manager Thomas Tuchel carefully managed Rice's fitness in the group opener against Croatia but could not afford to rotate extensively as the Three Lions struggled to a draw in Group L.
Tuchel's Praise for Rice
Despite the injury scare, Tuchel praised Rice, saying: "The point where he is now is one of the very best midfielders in the world. You see a humble, humble footballer, humble, ready to be a team player, ready every day to give energy into the good quality into the group and just ready to learn and learn every day. So his career makes him one of the very best at the moment."
Saka's Injury Update
Rice's Arsenal teammate Bukayo Saka has also been managing an Achilles issue that troubled him throughout the closing stages of the Gunners' Premier League title charge. Saka has been forced to start on the substitutes' bench in each of England's opening two World Cup fixtures.
However, Saka joined first-team training during the Ghana preparations and has confirmed he is now fit to play. Tuchel faces a selection dilemma between Saka and Noni Madueke on the right wing. Tuchel said: "It's another big thing on the right wing between Noni Madueke and Bukayo Saka and the beautiful thing is they do it for Arsenal as well. Bukayo is getting better and better, feels no more pain and he is ready to go - without telling you if he starts or comes from the bench."
Group L Standings
England currently lead Group L on goal difference, with Ghana matching them on points after defeating Panama in their opening match of the tournament.
