Declan Rice has downplayed concerns over his hamstring injury after England's dramatic 2-1 comeback victory against DR Congo in the World Cup round-of-32 on Wednesday. The Arsenal midfielder was forced off late in the match with a hamstring problem, but he expects to be fit for the last-16 clash against Mexico.
England's comeback victory
England fell behind early when Brian Cipenga scored in the seventh minute, putting DR Congo on the brink of a historic upset. However, captain Harry Kane scored twice in the second half to secure the win and set up a meeting with Mexico. Despite the victory, England's performance was far from convincing, with the team struggling to control the game against a spirited DR Congo side.
Rice, who was shifted to right-back in the second half, admitted the match was more difficult than necessary. 'I think we made more hard work of it than we needed to,' he told BBC Five Live. 'In games like that it was probably too much of a basketball match at times, back and forth, and we had to take the sting out of it because they have fast wingers.'
Rice's injury update
The 27-year-old midfielder was seen on the bench with a large ice pack on his left hamstring after being substituted. He revealed that he has been managing the issue since Christmas. 'It's what happens when you play in 30 degree heat I suppose. Tough game. Give it everything and bodies been through a lot in that match. Time to recover and go again,' Rice said.
Despite the concern, Rice insisted he will be ready for the next match. 'I'm fine. Good as gold. Good,' he stated. The England medical team will monitor his condition closely ahead of the Mexico game, which kicks off at 1am BST on Monday morning.
Rice's stint at right-back
Rice was deployed at right-back for the final 12 minutes of the match, a position he has played occasionally this season. He admitted it was not his natural role but was willing to do what was necessary for the team. 'It was probably the hardest 12 minutes of the game having a stint at right back. I have played there two or three times this season, I know the role, it is probably not my biggest strength but to do anything for the team and the manager. 12 minutes left I said I would do my best and I think I did well there. Let's see what happens next game but hopefully I don't have to be at right back.'
Looking ahead to Mexico
England will face Mexico in the last 16, a team known for their pace and counter-attacking style. Rice's availability will be crucial for England's midfield stability. Manager Gareth Southgate will hope his key midfielder recovers fully to help the team advance further in the tournament. England's performance against DR Congo showed vulnerabilities, but the team's resilience and Kane's finishing ability provide optimism for the knockout stages.
