Eberechi Eze believes Declan Rice will be ready to play his part against Panama, while also praising Bukayo Saka’s development and explaining how Arsenal’s title-winning mentality is benefiting England at the World Cup.
England head into Saturday’s final Group L fixture knowing victory will secure top spot after their frustrating goalless draw with Ghana.
Rice missed Thursday’s training session after suffering a calf issue against Ghana, although reports suggest the Arsenal midfielder remains in contention to feature and the absence was largely precautionary.
Asked about Rice’s condition after the Ghana game, Eze admitted he expects his Arsenal team-mate to be available.
“He’s someone who wants to play every game,” Eze said. “I don’t see him playing like he’s carrying anything.”
Rice has already revealed he has been managing hamstring nerve pain since the latter stages of Arsenal’s Premier League-winning campaign, with England carefully managing his workload throughout the tournament.
Eze also believes Arsenal’s title success has given England an important psychological boost heading into the knockout stages.
The summer signing said winning major honours changes a player’s mindset.
“Having players who have won things gives you a different confidence,” he said. “It gives you belief and trust in what you’re capable of.”
Eze has been used sparingly by Thomas Tuchel during the tournament, but said his experience at Arsenal has prepared him for waiting patiently for opportunities.
The attacking midfielder explained that staying mentally ready has become second nature.
“It’s about staying ready and staying resilient,” he said. “When you’re called upon, you’ve got to express yourself.”
Eze also suggested England possess tactical flexibility after questions about whether Tuchel could use two attacking midfielders in the same side.
“I think that’s definitely an option,” he said. “He’ll always choose what’s best for the team.”
The Arsenal midfielder also highlighted Saka’s decision-making after the winger continued his recovery from an Achilles problem during the group stage.
Saka has featured from the bench in England’s opening two matches and is pushing for a return to the starting XI against Panama.
Asked what makes Saka so effective in possession, Eze pointed to years of development.
“I’d say it’s experience,” he said. “It’s something he’s probably worked on from a young age.”
With Rice expected to be available despite his recent fitness scare and Saka moving closer to full sharpness, Arsenal’s influence could again prove vital as England look to finish top of Group L and build momentum ahead of the knockout rounds.