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Declan Rice Expected to Start for England in World Cup Semi-Final Against Argentina
The Arsenal midfielder recovered from illness that forced his half-time substitution in the quarter-final win over Norway. Thomas Tuchel confirmed Rice had spent three days in bed before improving at the team's Kansas City base ahead of the Atlanta match.
Jul 13, 5:30 PM·1m read1 source
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Declan Rice is expected to start for England in their World Cup semi-final against Argentina on Wednesday after recovering from illness, The Guardian reported. The 27-year-old Arsenal midfielder was substituted at half-time during England's quarter-final win over Norway. Manager Thomas Tuchel stated that Rice had spent most of the previous three days in bed due to illness.
Rice has since felt much better following the team's return to its base in Kansas City before departure for Atlanta on Tuesday. England also have fitness concerns over Ezri Konsa, who was substituted against Norway due to cramp. The Aston Villa defender remains in contention to start at right-back.
Reece James entered as a second-half substitute against Norway, while Bukayo Saka impressed off the bench and could start. Jordan Pickford said England's players know they must keep their heads against Argentina and will not be distracted by the rivalry. The semi-final in Atlanta is the first World Cup meeting between the sides since 2002.
Pickford, who played in England's 2018 World Cup semi-final and the European Championship finals lost in 2021 and 2024, added that the team must reset after decisions and let the football do the talking.
