In a major boost to England's World Cup hopes, Marcus Rashford and Declan Rice have both shaken off their respective concerns, taking part in training sessions with renewed vigour. The duo had sparked some jitters after being substituted in the opening 4-2 win against Croatia, but are now primed for action as the Three Lions take on Ghana in Boston.
Bukayo Saka's Achilles problem continues to be a concern, however, and manager Thomas Tuchel has confirmed he'll have to start on the bench once more. Saka had a fleeting appearance off the bench against Croatia but is still not deemed ready for a full 90 minutes – Noni Madueke will likely retain his starting spot on the right flank as a result.
England's star-studded squad has been firing on all cylinders, and that dominance was evident in their second-half performance against Croatia. Despite initial worries over Rashford's minor muscular issue and Rice's discomfort in his lower back and upper hamstring, both players looked the business during training, with Rice – England's vice-captain – gliding effortlessly through passing drills.
Jude Bellingham is also feeling the heat as he takes on greater responsibility within the squad. Speaking to FIFA, the 22-year-old has vowed to give everything for his team and country: "My duty to my team and nation is to leave it all out there – every pass, every tackle." The midfielder has proven himself to be a vital cog in the England machine, whether he's leading from the front or coming on off the bench – he knows how to handle the pressure.
And when Bellingham takes to the pitch, you can bet your last pound it's not just for himself. He sees every game as an opportunity to make his family proud – specifically his late grandfather, a die-hard English patriot who'd be chuffed to see his grandson giving everything in the Three Lions jersey.