Declan Rice set to return for England's World Cup last-32 tie

England have received a significant fitness boost ahead of their World Cup last-32 showdown with DR Congo, with Declan Rice expected to return to the starting line-up. The Arsenal midfielder sat out the victory over Panama to manage a calf issue after sustaining a heavy blow in the goalless draw with Ghana, but he is now ready to anchor the midfield again.

Thomas Tuchel is set to welcome back one of his most influential performers as the Three Lions move into the business end of the tournament. Rice struggled with his training volume initially, but his return to the final session before the squad travelled to New Jersey sparked optimism; in his absence Tuchel turned to Elliot Anderson and Jude Bellingham to hold the fort.

"He's just in a sweet spot after his injury. He's happy to play again, he just feels free .. He needs to play with this intensity, he loves to play on this kind of stage," Tuchel said. The relief over Rice's availability is tempered by a growing right-side defensive crisis.

USA, New Jersey

declan rice, england, world cup, dr congo, thomas tuchel, arsenal, jude bellingham, elliot anderson, calf injury, defensive crisis