England's Declan Rice cleared to start against Argentina

England is set to face Argentina in a World Cup semifinal in Atlanta on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, with manager Thomas Tuchel expected to have a nearly full squad available. The team's primary fitness concern, midfielder Declan Rice, has reportedly recovered from an illness that forced him off at halftime during the grueling quarterfinal victory over Norway.

Rice had been confined to bed for three days prior to the Norway match due to a stomach problem and was visibly drained after the extra-time win in Miami's extreme heat. However, after fully participating in a closed training session in Kansas City on Monday, the Arsenal midfielder is now understood to be fit and available to start alongside Elliot Anderson in central midfield. This news is a significant boost for England, who are one win away from their first World Cup final since 1966.

The only confirmed absences are defender Jarrell Quansah, who is suspended, and midfielder Jordan Henderson, who is sidelined with a broken wrist. Other players who faced fatigue or minor issues, including Nico O'Reilly, who had a hamstring concern, and defender Ezri Konsa, are also expected to be available for selection. O'Reilly expressed...