Rice Set to Play Through Mexico Pain

Declan Rice and England
Before Sunday’s last-16 tie against Mexico

Declan Rice is likely to start England’s World Cup last-16 tie against Mexico despite a neural issue affecting his hamstring and lower back. Thomas Tuchel said the midfielder played through terrible pain before coming off against DR Congo.

England still have right-back concerns, with Reece James yet to return to full training and Jarell Quansah still recovering from an ankle issue. Rice’s availability is crucial because Tuchel may need his energy in Mexico City altitude.