World Cup 2026: Rice Provides Injury Update Before England vs Ghana

Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice has confirmed that he is fit and ready for England’s upcoming World Cup 2026 match against Ghana.

Rice, who experienced lower‑back and neural hamstring discomfort during England’s opening win over Croatia, said the substitution was a prudent, precautionary move.

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“Yes, I’m ready. I’m fit and raring to go. I think it was a smart decision (to take me off). I was 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,” Rice said.

“It was a smart decision,” he added. “The last 20 minutes is where you probably pick up most injuries. That last 20 minutes is where you really feel your body going through it. The last few days I’ve felt really, really good.”

When asked about Bukayo Saka’s readiness, Rice replied, “One hundred per cent, yes. It’s been really good the way we’ve been managing him. The amount of football he’s played, I’ve seen him at Arsenal with this Achilles problem he’s got. I think we’re managing him the right way. You don’t want to put him in straight away now and put him at risk.”

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Both Declan Rice and Marcus Rashford were fully involved in Saturday’s training session and are reported to be clear to play against Ghana, potentially in a rotated Tuchel side.

England have had six days of rest before the Ghana game. Despite Saka’s recovery, the Three Lions remain firm favourites to secure three points and top Group L as they aim to advance to the next round.