England will decide on Declan Rice’s availability for the World Cup semi‑final against Argentina at a late stage.
There is cautious optimism that the Arsenal midfielder could recover from a recent illness in time to feature on Wednesday.
Rice, who experienced a sickness bug ahead of Saturday’s 2‑1 extra‑time victory over Norway in Miami, was taken off at halftime.
Head coach Thomas Tuchel noted after the match that Rice had spent three days in bed before the game, which England ultimately won 2‑1.
Although Rice has not yet fully recovered from the illness contracted in Mexico — where England defeated the co‑hosts 3‑2 in the round of 16 — his condition has shown marked improvement over the past 48 hours.
Accordingly, there is growing confidence that he will be fit to start in Atlanta.
Rice is nearly certain to declare himself available for the semi‑final given its significance.
However, England’s medical staff will make a final assessment, with a late decision expected.
Tuchel will monitor the speed of Rice’s recovery before confirming his selection.
Beyond the recent bout of sickness, Rice has also been managing a neural issue affecting his lower back and hamstring for several months.
The midfielder, who has earned 78 caps, has started every World Cup match for England except the group‑stage win over Panama, which he missed due to a flare‑up of his injury.