Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice was sent off at half-time during England’s quarter-final win against Norway, but is reported to have recovered from feeling unwell.
Declan Rice only played 45 minutes in England’s quarter-final win over Norway (Image: Getty Images)
Declan Rice was one of the players who looked exhausted within the first few minutes of the match. It’s one of the most deceptive things in football. Because rice doesn’t stop.
It’s hard to think of a more dedicated, energetic and tireless operator from box to box. Due to illness, Rice was replaced at half-time in the quarter-final win over Norway by Eberechi Eze.
But it wouldn’t have come as a surprise to anyone if Rice had simply hit a wall after 11 months of grueling labor. He has appeared in 67 games for club and country since mid-August.
And, of course, Rice doesn’t just appear, he gives his all. No one ran more for Arsenal’s cause last season than Rice. He played 3099 minutes in the Premier League and covered over 380km.
Since the beginning of last season, Rice has played a total of 5,312 minutes of soccer for club and national team. To put it in perspective, he has traveled more than 400 miles on a football pitch since August 17, 2025, when he played against Manchester United at Old Trafford. It’s not as good as The Proclaimers, but it’s not far off.
It is hard to believe that Rice, 27, did not fall into the so-called “red zone” at some stage late in the season, where fatigue can affect fitness and performance. Of course, he wasn’t alone at this World Cup.
In fact, Elliott Anderson covered more Premier League ground last season than Rice (Anderson covered 411km in 3,334 minutes), albeit over a longer period of time. However, Rice is also a player who uses a lot of mental energy as well as physical energy.
Thomas Tuchel has a big decision to make ahead of the World Cup semi-final against Argentina (Image: Eddie Keogh – The FA/The FA via Getty Images)
Declan Rice is reported to be feeling much better after falling ill
However, manager Tuchel is forced to make a ruthless decision. Medical workers will know whether Rice has fully recovered from the bug. If you are not fully recovered, it means you should not start.
Rice was far from his usual self against Norway and England were even better after being substituted. Tuchel has options and he won’t be afraid to use them. It would be great for England if Rice was fully fit, in top health and ready to go.
But considering his poor performance in the first half against Norway, it would be a huge turnaround in a very short period of time. He’s a really good football player, but playing Rice from the start is a gamble Tuchel doesn’t need.
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