Sports
England face late fitness test on Declan Rice before World Cup semi-final against Argentina
July 14, 2026 at 12:27 AM
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2 reports
Declan Rice is expected to start for England against Argentina despite illness, but a late decision will be made on his fitness.
- Rice was substituted at half-time in England's quarter-final win over Norway after spending three days in bed with a sickness bug.
- Thomas Tuchel said Rice has been carrying a neural problem affecting his lower back and hamstring for several months.
- Jordan Pickford said England will not be distracted by the rivalry and must keep their heads.
- Pickford said he is looking forward to facing Lionel Messi but acknowledged England cannot focus solely on him.

