England will make a late decision on whether Declan Rice is fit enough to start Wednesday’s World Cup semi-final against Argentina in Atlanta.
There remains growing optimism, however, that the Arsenal midfielder will shake off the effects of a sickness bug in time to feature.
Rice was substituted at half-time during Saturday’s quarter-final victory over Norway in Miami, having struggled badly with illness in the build-up to the game.
Head coach Thomas Tuchel revealed after the match that Rice had spent three days in bed before taking to the pitch against Norway.
England eventually came through that contest 2-1 after extra time, progressing to a semi-final against one of the tournament’s favourites.
Rice is understood to have picked up the illness during England’s time in Mexico, where they beat the co-hosts 3-2 in the last-16 round.
His condition has not yet fully cleared, but there has been a marked improvement over the past 48 hours, raising hopes of his involvement.
Given the sheer magnitude of a World Cup semi-final, Rice is almost certain to declare himself available for selection regardless of how he feels.
However, England’s medical staff are expected to have a significant say in the final decision given the severity of what Rice has been through.
Tuchel will monitor his midfielder’s recovery closely before committing to a decision on whether to include him from the start in Atlanta.
Compounding his illness concerns, Rice has also been managing a neural problem affecting his lower back and hamstring for several months.
The 78-cap midfielder has been a near ever-present throughout this tournament, starting every World Cup game except the 2-0 group-stage win over Panama following an injury flare-up.
England will be desperate to have their captain and midfield anchor available for what promises to be the most demanding test of their campaign so far.
