Declan Rice has been passed fit to start England’s World Cup semi-final against Argentina, handing Thomas Tuchel a timely boost with the Arsenal midfielder fully recovered from the stomach bug that forced him off at half-time in the quarter-final win over Norway.
According to a fresh update from Sky Sports, Rice completed a full training session in Kansas City on Monday, his first since the Norway victory, with Tuchel confirming at England’s pre-match press conference that his midfielder is “ready to start and as well recovered as possible.” Only Jarell Quansah, suspended, and Jordan Henderson, sidelined with a broken wrist, remain unavailable for Wednesday’s last-four tie in Atlanta.
Bukayo Saka Also Primed For Arsenal’s Biggest Night Of The Summer
Rice is set to be joined in Tuchel’s XI by Bukayo Saka, with the pair continuing their remarkable run through the knockout rounds as England chase a first appearance in a men’s World Cup final since 1966. Reece James and Ezri Konsa have also been cleared as selection options, easing the injury and illness problems that built up during the Norway win.
The stakes are already high in north London this week. Martin Zubimendi and Arsenal’s Spain contingent have already booked their place in Sunday’s final, meaning victory for Rice and Saka would set up an Arsenal reunion on the biggest stage in world football. Kick-off in Atlanta is at 8pm BST.
