England midfielder Declan Rice has allayed fears over his fitness ahead of Tuesday’s highly anticipated FIFA World Cup Group L clash against Ghana, insisting he is fully recovered and ready to play despite an injury scare in the Three Lions’ opening victory over Croatia.
The Arsenal star was substituted during the second half of England’s entertaining 4-2 win after appearing to experience discomfort in his hamstring and lower back, prompting concerns over the condition of one of Gareth Southgate’s most influential players.
With England preparing for a crucial encounter against the Black Stars, Rice has now confirmed that his withdrawal was purely a precautionary measure rather than a sign of a serious injury.
“Yes, I’m ready. I’m fit and raring to go,” Rice said.
“I think it was a smart decision to take me off. I was feeling a little bit of neural pain in my hamstring which I was managing after Christmas with Arsenal for a very long time. Obviously, not a lot of people would’ve known, it was all behind the scenes stuff.”
His comments will come as a major boost for England, who are aiming to build on their impressive opening performance and strengthen their grip on top spot in Group L.
Rice also explained that the coaching and medical staff chose to avoid unnecessary risks, particularly during the closing stages of the Croatia match when fatigue increases the likelihood of muscle injuries.
“It was a smart decision,” he added. “The last 20 minutes is where you probably pick up most injuries. That last 20 minutes is where you really feel your body going through it. The last few days I’ve felt really, really good.”
The 26-year-old remains a key figure in England’s midfield, providing defensive stability, ball progression and leadership in one of the tournament favourites’ most important areas of the pitch.
His availability sets up a fascinating midfield battle against a Ghana side full of confidence after opening their World Cup campaign with a dramatic 1-0 victory over Panama courtesy of Caleb Yirenkyi’s stoppage-time winner.
With both nations entering the contest on three points, Tuesday’s showdown in Boston could prove decisive in the race for qualification to the Round of 32, making Rice’s return to full fitness a significant boost for the Three Lions.
