Rice Shrugs Off Injury Scare After Limping Off vs. Croatia: ‘Good as Gold’

Declan Rice had the ITV broadcast crew and a fair share of England fans holding their breath when he hobbled off the pitch with under 20 minutes left in Wednesday’s 4-2 win over Croatia. But the Arsenal midfielder wasted no time putting those worries to rest.

Speaking after the match, Rice downplayed the moment, calling it little more than a precautionary move. “All good, good as gold,” he said. “Just what I’ve been nursing, probably, in the second half of the season at Arsenal, little neural pains here and there. But yeah, I’m all good, I’m all fine, just precaution and I’ll be back out there again against Ghana.”

The 27-year-old was a key part of Thomas Tuchel’s midfield engine room alongside Elliott Anderson, and he delivered the assist on Harry Kane’s second goal before being replaced by Morgan Rogers in the 72nd minute. The sight of Rice limping toward the bench, however, cast a brief shadow over what was otherwise a dominant start to England’s World Cup campaign.

Rice’s declaration that he’ll be ready for the group stage clash with Ghana should come as a relief for a Three Lions side trying to end a 60-year drought. But the same can’t be said for Marcus Rashford just yet.

The Manchester United forward came off the bench to score a late goal, but was spotted clutching his hamstring as the final whistle blew. According to reports from the stadium, Rashford did not seem to be moving freely after the match. Tuchel is expected to address the situation in his post-match press conference, though the team has not confirmed any injury.

Fans online noted the worrying pattern — Rashford’s history with soft-tissue issues has been a recurring concern for club and country — but there’s no official word on whether he’ll be limited against Ghana. For now, the squad’s medical staff will likely take a cautious approach with the winger.

England’s next World Cup fixture comes up quickly, and while Rice has already given the green light, all eyes will be on Tuchel’s update regarding Rashford. A fully fit squad is critical if the Three Lions want to keep their momentum rolling after a four-goal opening statement.