​Declan Rice has been playing through pain for England at the World Cup, carrying an injury from the final stretch of the season at Arsenal into the tournament. The midfielder remains one of the most crucial players for both his club and his country, and he has been central to England’s progress as they moved one match closer to reaching the World Cup semi-finals. England’s next assignment is against Norway, and Rice is anticipated to start after being given a lighter workload in training this week. Norway pose a real threat, and England know they cannot afford to underestimate their opponents.
The match will bring together two sides rich in top Premier League talent, and former England defender Stuart Pearce argues that only fully fit players should be picked. He does not expect Rice to take the field unless he is fully ready. Observers have pointed to the injury as a potential influencing factor for coach Thomas Tuchel, with Pearce telling Metro that the decision must take the midfielder’s health into account. He said: “The only thing that might be a consideration to him [Tuchel] is the injury… a concern that’s been with him [Rice] for a few games.” Adrian Durham, the show’s host, added: “He’s not 100 percent, let’s put it that way.”
Pearce believes Rice’s performances have concealed how serious his fitness issue is, and he worries that continuing to play could cause a bigger problem. “Yeah, exactly, but you wouldn’t think it with his performances. Is that going to do him more damage and is he likely to break down? If there is a risk there, I think you’d be foolish as a manager to play him.” While Rice has continued to deliver strong showings despite his injury, Pearce insists England must weigh the risks carefully ahead of the Norway clash.
With a place in the World Cup semi-final up for grabs, Tuchel faces a tough decision: is Rice’s influence worth the potential further deterioration of his condition? The midfielder’s importance to England is undeniable, but his current fitness could ultimately determine the final call.