The England team is facing a concern over the fitness of midfielder Declan Rice ahead of their quarter-final match against Norway. Former Three Lions captain Pearce has expressed his thoughts on the matter, suggesting that manager Tuchel should consider not selecting Rice if he is not fully fit.
Rice has been struggling with a hamstring injury throughout England's World Cup campaign. Pearce told a recent broadcast that the injury has been a concern for Rice for a few games, and that it might affect his decision-making as a manager. "The only thing that might be a consideration to him is the injury... a concern that's been with him for a few games," Pearce said.
When asked about Rice's injury, manager Tuchel stated that the midfielder was in terrible pain after the game against DR Congo, but that he believed Rice would recover. However, Pearce believes that playing Rice while he is not fully fit could lead to further damage and potentially cause him to break down.
Pearce added that Rice's recent performances would suggest that he is not fully fit, despite his claims to the contrary. "Is that going to do him more damage and is he likely to break down? If there is a risk there, I think you'd be foolish as a manager to play him." Rice is currently a doubt for the game against Norway this weekend after missing a second successive day of training with England due to a sickness bug.
The England team is taking precautions to prevent the spread of the illness, with Rice isolated from his teammates. The outcome of this decision will have a significant impact on England's chances in the match against Norway.
