Tuesday night will see Declan Rice captain England against Belgium as he makes his 50th appearance for the national team. The 25-year-old will lead the squad out of the tunnel at Wembley Stadium; as he called it a big moment.
Since making a £105 million summer transfer from West Ham United to Arsenal, Rice has been playing fantastically. In addition to being a reliable defensive midfielder, Rice has demonstrated his ability to score goals – he has contributed 13 this season.
Rice delighted at growth with England
“I think I have grown so much as a player and a person since I first came into the group at 19, I was probably a bit of a nervous player when I first came into the England squad, but as time has gone on I’ve played more big games, more games at major tournaments. I have enjoyed every moment”- Declan Rice said
“Fifty caps, it is a pinch me moment, it will be an honour. On my 50th cap, to walk out at Wembley in front of my family and friends, it is a great honour, I’m a bit speechless.”
England boss Gareth Southgate has had to contend with a number of injuries, both before he announced his squad and during the camp. “It is an incredible number who are unavailable to us,” he said.
A host of injuries have been a problem for England manager Gareth Southgate, both before and during the team announcement. “We cannot accommodate such a large number of people,” he remarked.
“I haven’t experienced that before, but it means there are opportunities for other people. It is increasingly difficult at international level.”
Jude Bellingham could play the entire match, according to Southgate, who confirmed Bellingham’s recovery from the cramp that kept him out against Brazil on Saturday.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta will be hoping Rice comes out of the game against Belgium uninjured, with the Gunners travelling to face Manchester City on Sunday.
Given that Arsenal are presently leading the Premier League on goal differential, the encounter at Etihad Stadium could be crucial in determining the title victor. Rice did not get a break during England’s 1-0 loss to Brazil on Saturday, and he won’t get one against Belgium either.
For Arsenal, Rice has been one of their best players this season and has equally been one of the best players in the league at large. His reputation continues to grow further and his leadership abilities are coming to light as well.
