Declan Rice has described Arsenal's Premier League title-winning campaign as "mentally draining" but has promised England fans that they will "see the best of me" at the World Cup. The midfielder played 63 matches for club and country this season, the most of any player in Thomas Tuchel's England squad.
Key Role in Arsenal's Title Triumph
Rice was instrumental for Arsenal as they secured their first Premier League title since 2003-04. The 27-year-old's consistency and leadership were vital throughout the season. He revealed to ITV Sport that he has been managing "neural pain" in his hamstring since Christmas but insists he is in "very good" physical condition.
Confidence High Despite Fatigue
Speaking at the pre-match press conference ahead of England's second group game against Ghana at Boston Stadium, Rice said: "I think I come into this tournament with bundles of confidence. I feel like I've come into England with a spring in my step. I think as we keep playing good opposition, you're going to keep seeing the best of me."
Reflecting on the season, he added: "This season has probably been more mentally draining than physically. But I'm in a mentally very good space and physically I feel very good as well." Rice is expected to earn his 75th cap by starting against Ghana on Tuesday.
England's Motivation and Fitness
When told that Ghana will be motivated to beat England, Rice responded: "We will be just as motivated as Ghana tomorrow, if not more motivated. That second-half performance [against Croatia] was probably the benchmark for us."
England manager Thomas Tuchel confirmed a clean bill of health for the squad ahead of the match. "Everyone is available, everyone was in training," Tuchel said on Monday.
