Thomas Tuchel delivers reassuring Declan Rice injury update after Arsenal star limps out of England’s World Cup opener

England manager Thomas Tuchel has moved quickly to calm fears surrounding Declan Rice after the Arsenal midfielder was forced off during the Three Lions’ opening World Cup victory over Croatia.

Rice played a key role in England’s impressive 4-2 win in Dallas but sparked concern when he signalled to the bench before limping off midway through the second half.

Rice forced off after discomfort

The Arsenal star was substituted in the 72nd minute after appearing uncomfortable during a spell in which England had begun to take control of the match.

Rice had already contributed an assist for Harry Kane’s second goal and was influential in England’s midfield before the issue forced Tuchel into a change.

While supporters immediately feared a significant injury, the England boss insisted the decision was precautionary.

Tuchel explains substitution decision

Speaking after the match, Tuchel revealed Rice had complained of discomfort around his lower back and upper hamstring area.

The German coach said: “Declan had some unusual ball losses and I saw a bit of discomfort. Then I asked him and he pointed directly to his lower back and upper hamstring, that he feels the discomfort.

“I didn’t want to take any risks and if I take Declan off, which I never want to do, it was the moment to protect him.

“I think Reece James did so well to replace him in midfield, he did a fantastic game. I hope it’s nothing more.

“Declan just reassured me at the end, ‘it’s good, it’s good’, and I know the discomfort. We will take care of it. It’s nothing big to worry about.”

Arsenal concerns eased

Rice’s fitness had already been a talking point following reports that he required pain-management treatment during the closing stages of Arsenal’s domestic campaign.

The midfielder has carried minor issues for several months but has consistently played through them for both club and country.

Fortunately for England, Rice appeared relaxed after the match and suggested there is little reason for concern ahead of their next fixture.

Rice targeting return against Ghana

Speaking to ITV after the win, Rice offered an upbeat assessment of his condition.

“All good, good as gold,” he said.

“Just what I’ve been nursing probably in the second half of the season, little pains here and there, but I’m all good.

“I’m all fine, just precaution and I’ll be back out there against Ghana.”

Kane reveals Tuchel’s half-time message

England recovered from a chaotic first half to overpower Croatia after the interval, and captain Harry Kane credited Tuchel’s team talk for the transformation.

The Bayern Munich striker explained: “He told us to take the shackles off, calm down and let’s go.

“He said what’s the worst that can happen? Show the world who we can be.

“We came out in the second half full gas and they couldn’t live with it, and that’s the level we have to set in every game.”

With Rice expected to be available for England’s second group-stage match, Tuchel will hope his midfield general can continue to anchor a side that has already underlined its World Cup credentials.