Declan Rice is expected to start for England in the World Cup round of 32 match against DR Congo [3].
His return to the starting lineup provides a critical boost to the English midfield as the team enters the knockout stages. After facing earlier injury concerns, the 27-year-old [1] is fit to return to the pitch for the high-stakes encounter.
Reports indicate that Rice is set to return to the starting lineup for the important match, BBC Sport said [1]. The England squad seeks to strengthen its core stability in the middle of the park to avoid the stalemate seen in previous fixtures. Specifically, the team is looking to improve upon their group-stage result against Ghana, which ended in a 0-0 draw [2].
While Rice's position in the midfield appears secure, the coaching staff remains undecided on the right-back position. The selection for the right-back starter remains a key point of discussion as the team prepares for the clash with DR Congo.
Rice is expected to start for England against DR Congo after injury concerns, the MSN editorial team said [2]. His presence is viewed as a necessary addition to the squad's defensive and transitional play during the tournament's elimination phase.
England's progression in the World Cup depends on maintaining a balance between a sturdy defense and an efficient attack. With Rice returning to the fold, the team gains a proven anchor in the midfield, a role that is essential for controlling the tempo of the game against an athletic DR Congo side.
“Declan Rice is set to return to the starting line-up for the important match.”
The return of Declan Rice stabilizes England's midfield transition, which struggled for offensive penetration during the 0-0 draw with Ghana. While the midfield is now settled, the uncertainty regarding the right-back position suggests a vulnerability in the defensive flanks that DR Congo may attempt to exploit.
