England handed welcome Declan Rice boost ahead of World Cup knock-outs

England handed welcome Declan Rice boost ahead of World Cup knock-outs

England have been handed a welcome injury boost ahead of their World Cup last-32 showdown against DR Congo.

The 27-year-old missed England’s 2-0 win over Panama in their final game of Group L after picking up a calf injury in the previous game against Ghana.

According to BBC Sport, Rice should be fit enough to start England round-of-32 match against DR Congo.

In Rice's absence, England boss Thomas Tuchel started with a midfield of Elliot Anderson and Jude Bellingham.

Speaking to reporters after the win over Panama, Tuchel addressed Rice’s injury, saying: "He's just in a sweet spot after his injury. He's happy to play again, he just feels free .. He needs to play with this intensity, he loves to play on this kind of stage,"