UMVA has learned that England's Declan Rice is ready to play against Ghana after coming off against Croatia with 20 minutes left in the second half due to a hamstring issue.
Rice told ITV, "Yes, I'm ready. I'm fit and raring to go." He explained that it was a smart decision to take him off, as he was feeling a little bit of neural pain in his hamstring, which he had been managing since Christmas with Arsenal.
The midfielder revealed that the last 20 minutes of the game is where most injuries occur, and he felt really good in the few days following the match. Rice's availability is a boost to England, who are also dealing with concerns over the durability and availability of his Arsenal teammate, Bukayo Saka.
Saka joined the England squad with an Achilles problem, which is being carefully managed. Rice expressed confidence in Saka's ability to make an impact at the tournament, saying, "One hundred per cent, yes. It's been really good the way we've been managing him."
Rice praised Saka's training and impact off the bench against Croatia, where he created the chance for Marcus Rashford to score. He also mentioned that Noni Madueke has been impressive in the first few games and can deputize for Saka if needed.
Rice described Saka as "one of the biggest game players I've played with" and noted that he wants to play every game, but has been smart about his fitness. With Rice and Saka fit and ready to go, England's chances of success in the tournament have received a significant boost.
