Declan Rice was observed applying an ice pack to his left hamstring following his substitution in England's World Cup last-32 match against DR Congo. The midfielder, who played a significant role in England's 2-1 comeback victory secured by two late Harry Kane goals, was seen taking precautions on the bench.
This precautionary measure comes as Rice continues to manage a nerve-related hamstring complaint that has affected him since Christmas. The issue has led to a demanding schedule for the 27-year-old, who has played 55 times for Arsenal and earned 10 caps for England this season. Rice has described the sensation as unusual, noting that he can feel a pain shoot up his leg even when at rest.
"It's just something that is obviously a bit unusual for me because I've never had anything (like that) before," Rice said earlier this week. "It's strange because you can just feel it like sitting there. It's something I've just managed. I've tried to get my rest when I can and last season I was just prioritising games."
The midfielder was previously rested for England's final group stage match against Panama, a decision that also accounted for the risk of suspension. He was also seen with heavy strapping on his left calf after a match against Ghana and was substituted after 72 minutes in England's opening game against Croatia.
Despite insisting the calf problem had cleared up before the DR Congo match, Rice's ongoing hamstring issue is a point of concern for England's prospects in the tournament. His fitness is considered crucial if Thomas Tuchel's side is to advance further in the competition. The team secured a 2-1 win against DR Congo after two late goals from Harry Kane.