The countdown begins! Declan Rice is poised to make a dramatic return to England's starting line-up for their crunch World Cup knockout tie against DR Congo on Wednesday, providing a massive boost to Gareth Southgate's midfield machine. The 27-year-old Arsenal star was given a rare breather during the 2-0 win over Panama, having suffered a sickening blow to his calf in the goalless draw with Ghana last Tuesday.
Rice's absence saw Elliot Anderson and Jude Bellingham form an impressive midfield partnership, but Southgate will be rubbing his hands together at the prospect of having his key man back on board. Rice may not have completed a full training schedule, but he did get in some crucial minutes with his team-mates before they headed to New Jersey, sending out a reassuring message to his manager and the nation.
But while the midfield is set for a much-needed injection of energy, concerns linger at the back. Chelsea's Reece James was forced to sit out against Panama due to a hamstring injury picked up in the Ghana match – although Southgate hasn't ruled him out entirely just yet. The real worry, however, is Jarell Quansah, who took over at right-back but now faces an anxious 48-hour wait for assessment by England's medics after suffering an ankle injury.
Quansah's prospects of making it to the start against DR Congo are looking increasingly slim, leaving Southgate with a conundrum on his hands. Djed Spence is poised to step in if James and Quansah are unable to make it – but the manager also has the option of shuffling centre-back Ezri Konsa to right-back.
The defensive doubts serve as a stark reminder that England's progress in the World Cup will depend on their ability to adapt and cover key positions. Can Southgate's side find a way to get over the line against DR Congo and move one step closer to the knockout stages? The world is watching – and waiting.
Source: England Football Association