England gets fitness boost ahead of round of 32 clash against DR Congo

England have received a major fitness boost ahead of their FIFA World Cup Round of 32 clash against DR Congo, with midfielder Declan Rice expected to return to Thomas Tuchel’s starting lineup. 

The Arsenal star missed England’s 2-0 victory over Panama after suffering a heavy blow to his calf during the goalless draw with Ghana, but he has now recovered sufficiently to put himself in contention for Wednesday’s knockout encounter in Atlanta.

Rice, who enjoyed a Premier League title-winning campaign with Arsenal last season, was unable to complete England’s full training schedule before the Panama match. 

However, the 27-year-old returned in time for the team’s final training session before travelling to New Jersey, giving Tuchel confidence that one of his most influential midfielders will be available for the start of the knockout stage.

In Rice’s absence, Tuchel paired Elliot Anderson with Jude Bellingham in midfield against Panama, a combination that helped England secure top spot in Group L. 

While the performance was convincing, the England boss is eager to restore Rice to the side as his experience and defensive qualities are expected to play a key role against a determined DR Congo outfit.

England’s biggest selection headache remains at right-back, where injuries have left Tuchel short of options. 

Reece James is still recovering from the hamstring injury he sustained against Ghana and is unlikely to feature despite not being completely ruled out. 

Meanwhile, Jarell Quansah is also a major doubt after suffering an ankle injury while filling in for James during the Panama victory.

Quansah will continue to be monitored by England’s medical staff over the coming days, although Tuchel has already admitted that the Bayer Leverkusen defender faces a race against time to regain fitness. 

The situation has been made more difficult by Tino Livramento’s withdrawal from the squad before the tournament because of a calf injury, leaving England with limited natural options on the right side of defence.

Should James and Quansah fail to recover in time, Djed Spence is expected to start after replacing Quansah during the Panama match. 

Tuchel also has the option of deploying Ezri Konsa at right-back if necessary, but England will hope Rice’s return can provide the stability needed as the Three Lions begin their quest for World Cup glory in the knockout rounds.