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England have received a timely boost ahead of their FIFA World Cup semi-final clash with Argentina, as Declan Rice is expected to recover in time to feature in Wednesday’s high-stakes encounter in Atlanta.

As reported by the Times, the Arsenal midfielder has made notable progress following a bout of stomach illness that hampered his build-up to the quarter-final triumph over Norway.

Rice has now rejoined the national squad after completing his isolation period and is steadily regaining full fitness.

The 27-year-old faced a challenging spell before England’s last-eight fixture, spending nearly three days bedridden due to suspected food poisoning.

Although he was far from peak condition, Rice started the match against Norway but was substituted at half-time after an understandably subdued performance.

England manager Thomas Tuchel acknowledged after the game that his deputy captain was unlikely to have lasted the full ninety minutes given his physical state.

Rice’s illness compounded the ongoing discomfort caused by nerve-related issues in his hamstring and lower back.

This combination of problems had initially sparked doubts about his readiness for England’s most significant match since the 2018 World Cup semi-finals.

However, those concerns have largely eased, with Rice poised to resume his central midfield partnership alongside Elliot Anderson as England aim to secure a spot in the final against Argentina.

Should he play, Rice will make his 79th senior international appearance for the Three Lions.

Meanwhile, England are keeping an eye on Ezri Konsa, who was forced off with cramp during the Norway encounter.

He remains in contention to keep his place, though Reece James is pressing for a recall after an impressive display off the bench.

Bukayo Saka also enhanced his chances of starting after a lively performance as a substitute in the quarter-final.

Tuchel now faces an enviable selection dilemma ahead of what promises to be a defining night in Atlanta.