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Rice expected to be fit for England's World Cup match against GhanaDeclan Rice is expected to be available for England's World Cup match against Ghana after experiencing lower back pain during the win over Croatia. The 27-year-old midfielder has been managing the issue for some time and will require ongoing treatment during the tournament./images/2026/06/rice-expected-to-be-fit-for-england-s-world-cup-match-against-ghana-22adea4d-800w.webpRice expected to be fit for England's World Cup match against Ghana

Rice expected to be fit for England's World Cup match against Ghana

Updated 1 min read
Declan Rice in England kit, holding his lower back, with a concerned expression on the pitch. — latest news and analysis.

Short overview

Declan Rice is expected to be available for England's World Cup match against Ghana after experiencing lower back pain during the win over Croatia. The 27-year-old midfielder has been managing the issue for some time and will require ongoing treatment during the tournament.

Declan Rice is expected to be fit for England's World Cup match against Ghana on Tuesday, despite suffering from lower back pain during the team's victory over Croatia. The 27-year-old Arsenal midfielder was substituted midway through the second half of that game, prompting concerns about his fitness. However, sources indicate that the back issue is unlikely to prevent him from playing against Ghana in Boston.

Injury Background

The lower back complaint is one that Rice has been carrying for a while and will require careful management throughout the tournament. It is not a new injury but a recurring issue that the England medical staff are monitoring closely.

Manager's Comments

Speaking after the Croatia match, England manager Thomas Tuchel addressed the situation. “Declan had some unusual ball losses and I saw a bit of discomfort. And then I asked him, and he pointed directly to his lower back, upper hamstring, that he feels the discomfort. I didn't want to take any risks, I hope it's nothing more. Declan just reassured me at the end. We will take care of it, and it's nothing big to worry about,” Tuchel said.

Team Outlook

Rice's availability is a boost for England as they prepare to face Ghana. The midfielder has been a key figure in the team's setup, and his presence will be important for maintaining balance in the midfield. The match against Ghana is scheduled for Tuesday at 21:00 local time in Boston.

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