However, Rice has assured fans that he is now fit and ready to play, crediting the decision to take him off the field as a smart one.

Rice explained that he had been managing a hamstring issue since the Christmas period with Arsenal, but it was not a widely known issue as it was being treated behind the scenes.

"I was feeling a little bit of neural pain in my hamstring, which I was managing after Christmas," Rice said. "It was a smart decision to take me off, as the last 20 minutes of a game is where most injuries occur."

Rice added that he has been feeling good in the last few days and is ready to make an impact for manager Thomas Tuchel.

When asked about Saka's chances of making an impact, Rice said,"One hundred per cent, yes. We're managing him the right way, considering the amount of football he's played."

England are favorites to win the match, and with Rice and Saka ready to make an impact, the team is likely to secure their place in the next round.