England squad fitness improves for World Cup semi-final against Argentina
Squad fitness update ahead of semi-final
England’s squad is reportedly nearing full fitness for their World Cup semi-final match against Argentina on Wednesday. Concerns regarding illness, injury, and fatigue have eased significantly following the recent victory over Norway. Manager Thomas Tuchel is expected to have a largely complete squad to choose from, with only two players unavailable for selection.
Declan Rice, the Arsenal midfielder, is confirmed to be fit and available to start the crucial match. Rice had been battling a stomach problem after the last-16 game in Mexico City, which led to him spending three days confined to his bed prior to the quarter-final against Norway. Due to his illness, FA doctors limited him to playing only 45 minutes in the match held in Miami, where high temperatures and humidity were a factor. He appeared visibly fatigued after the extra-time win.
However, Rice has since made a full recovery and participated in a complete training session on Monday in Kansas City, which was the first full session after the Norway game. This indicates that any doubts about his ability to start against the reigning world champions have been resolved.
O’Reilly and other player concerns
Another player who had fitness concerns, Nico O’Reilly, is also expected to be available for selection. O’Reilly experienced a hamstring problem during the match against Norway, prompting him to signal for a substitution in the second half. He was replaced by Djed Spence just before extra-time commenced. Despite this, reports suggest he has not sustained any major strain.
O’Reilly expressed his excitement about the upcoming game, stating, “It’s crazy, an unbelievable feeling. I can’t wait for the game.” He also reflected on achieving his dream of being in the World Cup squad and the Manchester City team, a goal he had set three years prior. He emphasised his intention to “relish it and take it all in.”
While many players experienced cramps and extreme fatigue after Sunday’s game, the FA’s medical and physiotherapy staff have implemented an extensive rehabilitation program over the past two days. Several other players will continue to be monitored for their recovery from the demanding conditions in Miami.
Harry Kane, Elliot Anderson, Marc Guehi, and John Stones all played the full 120 minutes against Norway. Guehi had missed several training sessions leading up to the match due to a hamstring tweak, and Stones had only played a total of 35 minutes in the tournament before that point.
Unavailable players and match preparations
Despite the overall improvement in squad fitness, two players remain unavailable for the semi-final. Jarell Quansah is suspended, and midfielder Jordan Henderson is sidelined due to a broken wrist. These are the only two players Tuchel will be without as England aims for their first World Cup final in 60 years.
Ezri Konsa, an Aston Villa defender, was substituted against Norway due to cramp, but he is also expected to be in contention to start at right-back. There is also a possibility that Tuchel might recall Reece James, the Chelsea captain, who came on as a second-half substitute against Norway. Bukayo Saka could also be in line for a starting position after making an impact from the bench.
Goalkeeper Jordan Pickford commented on the upcoming match, highlighting the importance of maintaining composure against Argentina. He noted the historical rivalry between the two nations but stressed that the team’s focus would be on their performance. Pickford stated, “This is us against them and another great nation to play against.”
Tuchel has one final training session scheduled in Kansas City today to finalise his tactics and team selection for the encounter with Lionel Messi and Argentina. The semi-final will take place in Atlanta, with authorities on high alert due to the expected presence of thousands of supporters from both countries.
The referee for the game in Atlanta has been confirmed as Ismail Elfath, an American official who previously oversaw Norway’s victory over Brazil in the last 16.
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Source: skysports.com
