England midfielder Declan Rice has been isolated from his teammates due to illness ahead of the World Cup quarter-final clash with Norway. The Arsenal player is reportedly suffering from a bug that has exacerbated an existing hamstring and lower back issue. Football Association officials have taken steps to contain the potential outbreak within the squad.
Rice has missed two consecutive training sessions. The news comes as the Norwegian camp is also experiencing sickness. Goalkeeper Orjan Nyland confirmed reports of illness, stating that the team doctor has been very busy. He suggested that the bug may have been contracted during a period of time off after their victory over Brazil.
Norway has had players miss matches due to illness, and manager Ståle Solbakken was observed coughing at a press conference. Crystal Palace forward Jorgen Strand Larsen missed an opening game, and Marcus Holmgren Pedersen was absent for the match against Brazil. Solbakken attributed some of the issues to factors like air conditioning, flights, and changing rooms.
England secured their place in the quarter-finals with a 3-2 victory over Mexico. Jude Bellingham scored twice, and Harry Kane added a penalty, but Mexico responded with goals from Julian Quinones and Raul Jimenez. The match was notable for a red card shown to England's Jarell Quansah, who will miss the upcoming game.
In addition to Quansah's suspension, Jordan Henderson will also be unavailable for the Norway match. The midfielder sustained a suspected broken wrist after an accident involving an advertising hoarding and remained in Mexico City while the rest of the team returned to their base in Kansas City. The availability of Reece James is also uncertain due to a knock.
England faces Norway in Miami for a place in the semi-finals. Norway has not advanced past the group stage in previous major tournaments. Solbakken acknowledged England as a strong opponent but expressed hope for a competitive match.