​England are one game from the biggest stage of all and the selection talk has already begun ahead of Wednesday night’s World Cup semi-final with Argentina in Atlanta. A place in the final is on the line, England are chasing their first appearance in the showpiece since 1966, and the big question centres on Declan Rice.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementRice was forced off at half-time in the quarter-final win over Norway after being affected by illness, and there will be understandable caution around one of England’s most influential players. The expectation, though, is that he still has every chance of returning to the starting line-up, which would be a major lift for Thomas Tuchel before such a high-stakes encounter.England’s midfield balance depends heavily on Rice, particularly against an Argentina side packed with quality and control. He looked drained at the end of the Norway game, so the medical staff will monitor him closely right up to kick-off. If he is passed fit, he is expected to slot back in alongside Elliot Anderson, giving England a stronger platform in front of the defence and more authority out of possession.Photo IMAGOAdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementThere are no fresh disciplinary headaches for Tuchel to navigate. Rice, Jude Bellingham, Marc Guehi and Nico O’Reilly all came through the last round without the bookings that would have caused problems. Jarell Quansah remains suspended, while Jordan Henderson is out for the rest of the tournament after suffering a broken wrist, although he has stayed with the squad.One of the biggest tactical calls comes on the right side of defence. Reece James made his return in the second half against Norway and offers natural quality in that position. He is the only fit specialist right-back available, but Tuchel may still be tempted by Ezri Konsa, who has impressed when asked to fill in there.If James starts at right-back, then Tuchel must leave one of Konsa, John Stones or Guehi out of the back line. That is no easy call after all three stood firm in the quarter-final. James could also be used in a more advanced or midfield role again, but starting him in defence feels the cleaner solution.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementThere is another decision to make on the left. Djed Spence has made a strong case with his substitute appearances and could replace O’Reilly at left-back. O’Reilly has been managing a hamstring issue, and while he is expected to be available, Tuchel has a genuine alternative if he wants more energy and recovery pace in that area.Further forward, Bukayo Saka has put real pressure on Noni Madueke after a bright cameo from the bench. Saka brought sharper movement and greater threat, and it would be no surprise if Tuchel rewarded that by restoring him to the starting side against Argentina.Predicted England team, 4-2-3-1: Pickford, James, Konsa, Guehi, O’Reilly, Anderson, Rice, Saka, Bellingham, Gordon, Kane.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementK