Former England midfielder Scott Parker has emphasized the importance of Declan Rice to the team's chances in the World Cup. Parker believes Rice is a crucial player and a "foundation pillar" for England, saying that four words come to mind when thinking about England's hopes of winning the World Cup: "we need Declan Rice."
Rice has been managing a hamstring issue, leading to debate about whether he should be given extra recovery time, potentially sitting out the last-32 contest with DR Congo. However, Parker argues that Rice is pivotal to England's success and that his absence would be felt.
Parker praises Rice's versatility, citing his ability to play as a No 6 or No 8, and his impressive physical attributes, including strength and endurance. He notes that Rice is a "builder" who gets attacks moving and has the ability to run with the ball.
The midfielder's delivery from set-pieces is another asset that Parker highlights, saying that Rice's ability to put the ball into the right places has already worked to England's advantage. He believes that players like Rice are hard to come by and that England need him to succeed.
Parker's comments come after Paul Scholes suggested that Rice should be left on the bench and replaced by new Manchester City signing Elliot Anderson. However, Parker disagrees, saying that Rice is a "manager's dream" who will do whatever is asked of him.
England's World Cup campaign continues as they face DR Congo in the last 32, with a potential quarter-final spot against Ecuador or Mexico on the line. The team's success will depend on key players like Rice, who Parker believes are essential to their chances.
