Declan Rice has been a critical player for England at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, so they will need him to be at his best for the quarterfinal match against France on Saturday night.
However, it seems as if there are concerns regarding his health and fitness to play against Les Bleus in the days leading up to the game. According to rumors, the West Ham United midfielder skipped England’s training session on Wednesday because he felt sick.
If Rice cannot participate in the quarterfinal, Gareth Southgate will need to reevaluate his middle lineup, so the 23-year-old defensive midfielder’s complete recovery is crucial.
Can Declan Rice play against France?
Right now, it is likely that Rice will form the foundation of England’s midfield against France.
The sickness he endured does not appear to be long-lasting, and it might be revealing as Borna Sosa sat out Croatia’s game against Japan with a similar-sounding ailment but then began the quarter-final against Brazil.
Several sources have provided comfort that Rice would recover in time to play against France. However, it is still possible that Southgate may choose to utilize Rice as a backup in case England manages to establish a crucial lead against France.
In addition, Rice’s fitness has improved due to recent statements made by fellow Englishman Kalvin Phillps in a news conference, who said Rice would be healthy enough to play.
“Yes, but Dec was back in training today, so I think he’s still in decent shape. He felt good. Whether anything goes wrong and Dec isn’t healthy, I’ll do my hardest to finish the 90 minutes, sure “When asked if he could fill in for Rice, Phillips said.
Conor Coady and Raheem Sterling, who just arrived in Qatar from England after a robbery at his family home, were seen laughing with Rice as he worked with the ball during the training session on Friday. Rice seemed to be in extremely good spirits.
How well did Declan Rice do in Qatar?
Rice has been one of the better players for England at the World Cup thus far. Although it is a competitive area of the team, he has started in each of England’s first four games.
His energy in a competition involving many fatigued players has been vital to England’s success, and his steadiness has brought the most out of Jude Bellingham in an attacking sense. Although the Borussia Dortmund player has been the center of attention, Rice has also contributed to that, as the player is aware.
Since Rice’s tackling and rushing will be required in front of the defense, it is virtually probable that his inability to start against France has more to do with his physical condition than anything else.
