Jamie Vardy advises caution with Declan Rice ahead of World Cup match
Jamie Vardy believes Thomas Tuchel should take no chances with Declan Rice and leave the midfielder out of England’s final World Cup group match against Panama, reports BritPanorama.
The Three Lions have already secured their position in the knockout stages after accumulating four points from their opening two matches. A positive result on Saturday night will guarantee top spot in Group L.
Ahead of the contest, Tuchel faces several selection decisions as he considers rotation for his side before the last 32. Former England striker Vardy suggests that one decision should be straightforward.
The 39-year-old, who has navigated his own career managing injuries and monitoring his workload, feels that Rice deserves a breather following a demanding season for both club and country. Speaking on The Utter Woke Nonsense podcast, Vardy also advocated for managing Bukayo Saka’s minutes as the Arsenal winger continues to return to full fitness.
“Definitely change the wingers,” Vardy stated, adding, “If Saka is carrying a knock, then surely there’s no issue with starting him and giving him a set amount of time, maybe half time or whatever.” He further emphasized, “If I’m honest, I think you need to give Rice a rest.”
Rice has returned to full training after a minor calf complaint but Vardy argues that risking the midfielder could lead to further complications. “I think he needs it,” Vardy asserted. “He’s had a massive season. There’s been a bit out that he’s got some nerve issues in his hamstring and stuff.”
Vardy contends that England would be taking an unnecessary gamble by risking one of their most influential players. “Why risk making it a hundred times worse to the point where he might not be able to be involved in any other games later on?” he questioned.
While Rice has become one of Tuchel’s most trusted figures, Vardy believes that the squad is sufficiently deep to cope without the Arsenal midfielder against Panama. Vardy specifies that this match presents an ideal opportunity to give chances to other players, highlighting that both Kobbie Mainoo and Jordan Henderson are ready to step into midfield roles.
England head into the contest as overwhelming favourites, expected to have enough quality to overcome Panama. Their last encounter with the Central American side resulted in a 6-1 victory during the 2018 World Cup in Russia, showcasing their strength in the tournament.
