Declan Rice expected to recover in time for Argentina clash

Declan Rice is expected to recover in time for England’s World Cup semi-final against Argentina, according to The Times. The Arsenal midfielder is set to start the Wednesday match in Atlanta after battling a stomach illness that disrupted preparations for England’s quarter-final against Norway. He returned to the squad after no longer needing to isolate and is reported to be closing in on full fitness. The article says Rice spent nearly three days confined to bed and, though far from his best physically, started versus Norway before being replaced at halftime after a subdued display. England manager Thomas Tuchel acknowledged Rice had little chance of completing the full contest. The report also notes concerns from cramping affecting Ezri Konsa and possible selection pressures from Reece James and Bukayo Saka, adding to Tuchel’s decision-making.