​England midfielder Declan Rice lasted only the first half of their World Cup quarter-final against Norway. He has been a constant presence for both England and Arsenal this season, featuring in nearly every minute of Arsenal’s Premier League campaign and the majority of their run to the Champions League final. Undoubtedly one of Europe’s leading midfielders, the 27-year-old, however, has not managed to replicate his peak form during this World Cup. Unfortunately for Rice, he was withdrawn at halftime in Miami.
Before the Norway match, Rice had been a doubt about his fitness. Not only has the former West Ham captain been managing a hamstring issue throughout the tournament, but there has also been talk surrounding his fitness in England’s campaign. In addition, Rice has been battling illness in the days leading up to the Norway game, missing some training sessions, which meant his involvement was comparatively short.
It remains unclear how serious any potential issue is for Rice, if there is one at all. If England advance to the later stages of the tournament, the matches will come thick and fast. There is a World Cup semi-final scheduled for Wednesday, July 15, in Atlanta, ahead of the final in New Jersey on Sunday, July 19. Rice has long been a hugely influential figure for both club and country, and while he may not have reached his absolute best in this tournament, any team in the world would miss a player of his quality.
The focus now shifts to how England proceed without him if he cannot sustain full involvement, and how he recovers to be at his best for potential knockout fixtures. While the exact severity of his condition remains to be seen, the looming schedule means Rice’s availability will be crucial for England’s chances going forward.