Rice likely to be available for England v Mexico

Rice likely to be available for England v MexicoImage source, Getty ImagesImage caption, Declan Rice stepped in at right-back during the last-32 win over DR CongoPublished3 July 2026, 22:23 BSTCommentsUpdated 3 minutes agoDeclan Rice is likely to be available to start England's World Cup last-16 tie against Mexico on Sunday despite an ongoing injury issue.The Arsenal midfielder has been playing with a neural problem that affects his hamstring and lower back and was substituted in injury time of the 2-1 win over DR Congo in the last 32.Speaking after that game, manager Thomas Tuchel said: "I asked him. He said: 'I can do it for the team but I am in terrible pain.' When Declan tells you he is in terrible pain then you know he cannot take it any more."Though Rice is likely to be available to start against Mexico, there remain doubts about Reece James' availability, with the Chelsea right-back having sat out two matches because of a hamstring injury.It is understood James is yet to return to full training in the build-up to the game against Mexico, which is scheduled for 18:00 local time on Sunday (01:00 BST on Monday), though could move because of the weather.Back-up right Jarell Quansah, who missed the win over DR Congo with an ankle issue, has stepped up his recovery but it is not known yet if he will be available.Related topicsFootballFIFA World Cup 2026More on this storyEngland fan tickets for Mexico on resale for up to £26KPublished10 hours agoWorld Cup 2026 knockout pathHow to watch the World Cup on the BBC and ITVPublished1 day ago