Declan Rice says he has played through 'neural pain' but is fit for Ghana

Declan Rice revealed he has been playing through secret "neural pain" since December but insisted he is fully fit for England’s second World Cup group game against Ghana. He had been seen nursing his hamstring during the Three Lions' 4-2 victory over Croatia, prompting concern after limping off with 20 minutes remaining at Dallas Stadium.

Rice clarified that the issue has been managed behind the scenes in north London. "Yes, I’m ready," he told ITV, adding that he had been 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." He praised Thomas Tuchel’s decision to withdraw him late in the win, calling it sensible given the quick turnaround before the Ghana match. "It was a smart decision," Rice said, noting that "the last 20 minutes is where you probably pick up most injuries" and that he has felt "really, really good" in the days since.

England, North London

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