Rice trains with England squad ahead of World Cup semi-final against Argentina

Declan Rice trained with England’s squad in Kansas City on Tuesday, raising optimism that the Arsenal midfielder will be fit to start Wednesday’s World Cup semi-final against Argentina at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.

Thomas Tuchel’s side face Lionel Messi’s Argentina having edged past Norway 2-1 after extra time in Miami, a match in which Rice was withdrawn at half-time having been visibly below his best. Tuchel later revealed the midfielder had spent three days bedbound before the quarter-final after falling ill following England’s last-16 trip to Mexico.

Rice has also been managing a nagging hamstring problem since Christmas, making his return to full training all the more significant. Tuchel is expected to give a definitive update on his availability at the pre-match press conference at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

The news is not entirely positive for England, however. Jordan Henderson was the only member of the 26-man squad absent from training, having undergone arm surgery after sustaining an injury during the Mexico trip. Versatile defender Jarell Quansah did take part but will sit out the semi-final regardless, serving the second match of a two-game ban following his red card at the Estadio Azteca.

Right-back Reece James is pushing for a starting berth after returning from a three-game hamstring absence as a second-half substitute against Norway. His fitness adds further depth to Tuchel’s options as England seek a place in Sunday’s final at MetLife Stadium.