​England are closely monitoring Declan Rice’s fitness as he and two other teammates enter a race to be ready for the FIFA World Cup quarterfinal against Norway. The Arsenal midfielder has managed a muscular issue throughout much of the tournament, but a recent illness has left him sidelined and away from the group to prevent any risk of transmission. Rice has already missed two training sessions this week as he recovers, though he has been able to train previously and was seen applying ice to his hamstring after the DR Congo game. He featured for the full 90 minutes in England’s memorable victory over Mexico at Estadio Azteca, according to The Mirror, underscoring his importance to the side. The 23-year-old captain has forged an effective midfield partnership with Eddie Nketiah’s teammate, Mason Mount, or rather with Eddie Anderson, now with Manchester City, and his fitness status could impact a rotation early in the knockout phase. If Rice cannot play, it could open opportunities for players such as Kobbie Mainoo to step into a larger role in midfield.
Another regular starter, Marc Guehi, remains uncertain ahead of the Norway clash. The quality center-back would be key to neutralizing the threat posed by Erling Haaland, who is competing with Harry Kane for the World Cup Golden Boot. Guehi is eager to prove his readiness, and his participation on Saturday hinges on whether he can join Friday’s final training session. If he misses that session, his weekend availability could be questionable, though the problem is not deemed serious. Still, Thomas Tuchel cannot afford to take risks with Haaland in form. If Guehi is unavailable, John Stones, Dan Burn, or Trevoh Chalobah could slot in at center-back to cover.
Fans can also expect to hear the latest updates on the goalline defense on the next episode of All Out Soccer. England’s defensive unit has faced more injury and suspension challenges than any other area, including the impact of Jarell Quansah’s two-game ban following a red card against Mexico. Quansah had only just been brought into the starting lineup after Reece James’ injury, which initially ruled him out of the World Cup. James’ absence could see the Chelsea man return against Norway if his fitness holds, after sustaining a hamstring issue during the goalless draw with Ghana and missing a portion of Thursday’s training, though he could still be included if he shows no further setbacks.
With England as firm favorites to advance to the semifinals, the Three Lions’ hopes are high, but Norway has already shown they can pull off upsets, most notably by eliminating Brazil in the Round of 16. If England progresses, they would face a potential blockbuster clash against old rivals Argentina, who meet Switzerland just hours after England’s match. This sets up a potentially dramatic run to the final, with the tactical battle between England’s lineup and Norway’s resilient rearguard likely to decide who progresses to the last four.