2026 FIFA World Cup: Declan Rice Speaks On Fitness Ahead Of England Vs Ghana Clash

Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice has declared himself fit and available for England’s 2026 World Cup Group L clash against Ghana after shaking off a minor injury concern.

Declan Rice was substituted during England’s opening victory over Croatia after experiencing lower back and neural hamstring discomfort, sparking fears over his availability for the Three Lions’ next outing.

However, the Arsenal star has moved quickly to ease those concerns, insisting the decision to withdraw him was purely precautionary.

“Yes, I’m ready. I’m fit and raring to go. I think it was a smart decision (to take me off),” Declan Rice told reporters.

“I was feeling a little bit of neural pain in my hamstring, which I was managing after Christmas with Arsenal for a very long time. Obviously, not a lot of people would’ve known, it was all behind-the-scenes stuff.”

Rice explained that the timing of his substitution was aimed at preventing any further setback.

“It was a smart decision,” Rice added. “The last 20 minutes is where you probably pick up most injuries. That last 20 minutes is where you really feel your body going through it. The last few days I’ve felt really, really good.”

The midfielder also backed teammate Bukayo Saka to make a significant contribution despite concerns over the winger’s fitness.

“One hundred per cent, yes. It’s been really good the way we’ve been managing him,” he said.

“The amount of football he’s played, I’ve seen him at Arsenal with this Achilles problem he’s got I think we’re managing him the right way. You don’t want to put him in straight away now and put him at risk.”

England received another boost ahead of the Ghana encounter as Rice and Marcus Rashford both took full part in Saturday’s training session, leaving them in contention to start.

Head coach Thomas Tuchel is expected to consider changes to his line-up, with England enjoying six days of rest since their opening fixture. The England vs Ghana clash will kick off at 9 p.m. on Tuesday, June 23.