Midfielder was subbed off against Croatia after feeling pain in lower back and hamstring area
England are confident Declan Rice will be fit for their World Cup Group L meeting with Ghana despite the midfielder being forced off during the victory over Croatia with a lower-back complaint.
The 27-year-old was substituted midway through the second half, prompting concerns over the fitness of one of the team’s most influential players.
However, the issue is not expected to rule Rice out of Tuesday’s match in Boston and will instead be managed as part of an ongoing condition he has been carrying for some time.
Rice’s availability is a significant boost for England as they seek to build on their opening win against Croatia and strengthen their position in the group.
Opponents Ghana also won their first game against Panama, if unconvincingly, and will be strengthened by the availability of Thomas Partey, who missed that game due to visa issues.
Tuchel moved quickly to replace Rice against Croatia after the Arsenal midfielder communicated signs of discomfort. The England manager said Rice had felt pain in his lower back and upper hamstring area but stressed there was no indication of a serious injury.
