Declan Rice
ArsenalCM
Box-to-Box
Jan 14, 1999 (27)
Right
6'2"
185 lb
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Deemed fit to face Panama
Rice (calf) is an option for Saturday's match against Panama, according to manager Thomas Tuchel, per Dom Smith of The Standard. "Elliot and Declan were training today. They had minor issues after the match, but they had enough time to recover. So everyone except for Reece is available, and we will take the decision [on who starts the game] tomorrow."
Analysis: Rice was coming into Saturday's match with some doubt, but will end up being an option, with the midfielder set to make the team sheet against Panama. However, it appears unlikely he will feature from the start, potentially even being sat out the entire match to be cautious. That said, the calf issue is not the only thing to worry about, as he also sits on a yellow card and looks to avoid a suspension. Kobbie Mainoo will likely enter the starting XI in his place.
Training but still doubtful
Rice (calf) is back in training but remains a doubt for Saturday's match against Panama, according to Jacob Steinberg of The Guardian.
Analysis: Rice has returned to training and eased concerns after leaving the Ghana match with his left calf heavily strapped and a noticeable limp, but coach Thomas Tuchel still faces a genuine dilemma over whether to start his midfield leader against Panama. With England almost through and Rice on a yellow card, the case for protecting him is strong. That would open the door for Kobbie Mainoo to earn his first start of the tournament, with Jordan Henderson also available if Tuchel prefers experience in the role.
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