Tuchel confirms Rice fit as England prepare for Argentina World Cup clash
England have received a major boost ahead of their FIFA World Cup semi-final after head coach Thomas Tuchel confirmed that midfielder Declan Rice has recovered from illness and is available to start against Argentina.
Rice had raised fitness concerns after being substituted at half-time during England's quarter-final victory over Norway. However, Tuchel said the Arsenal midfielder has recovered sufficiently and is ready for Wednesday's highly anticipated encounter.
The England manager revealed that nearly his entire squad is available for selection, with only defender Jarell Quansah, who is suspended, and experienced midfielder Jordan Henderson ruled out. Henderson is sidelined after suffering a broken arm following an accident at the end of England's round-of-16 victory over co-hosts Mexico.
Looking ahead to the semi-final, Tuchel described the meeting with the reigning world champions as one of football's biggest rivalries but insisted his players are focused on the present rather than the history between the two nations.
He said both teams are expected to produce an intense and emotionally charged contest, with momentum likely to shift throughout the game.
England and Argentina have shared several memorable World Cup encounters over the years, including the dramatic 1986 quarter-final and their penalty shootout clash at France 1998.
Despite that history, Tuchel stressed that his side is not using past meetings as motivation, insisting the team's priority is securing another victory and reaching the World Cup final.
He added that England have approached the tournament with confidence and ambition and are determined to take the next step while maintaining respect for a formidable Argentine side.
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