Declan Rice thinks other teams will be fearful of England’s ‘world-class’ squad

By Mark Mann-Bryans, PA, Al Wakrah

Declan Rice believes England’s “world-class” squad deserve to be feared at the World Cup.

Gareth Southgate’s side face Senegal in the last 16 on Sunday evening having progressed as winners of Group B.

While a goalless draw against the United States earned the England boss criticism from some quarters, the attacking intent in a 6-2 victory over Iran and a 3-0 win against Wales has caught the eye.

Marcus Rashford’s brace in the Wales game took him onto three in the tournament – level with the leaders in the race for the golden boot – while Bukayo Saka has two goals and both Phil Foden and Raheem Sterling have one apiece.

Captain Harry Kane is yet to get off the mark but has provided three assists and Southgate’s embarrassment of riches in attacking positions could prove the difference.

“I think it’s top, top level,” West Ham skipper Rice said of the England squad in Qatar.

“It’s always nice to know you can bring players off the bench who can instantly change the game.

“Whether we’re drawing 0-0 and need a freshen up up front, or we need a change in legs in midfield, or even at the back, we’ve got players that are world class that can come on and change the game instantly.

“Throughout a World Cup you’re going to need that quality. So I think it ranks really high among other squads in the tournament.

 

“Why should we not be feared? I think other nations will always look at us and think about the quality we’ve got in the squad. If you look at our attacking players, there are world class, unbelievable talents across the board. Across the whole team.

“There are players who have played in the biggest games, won the biggest trophies. We are one of the biggest teams here.”

While there will be fierce competition to earn a place in the starting line-up against Senegal, Rice believes it is a healthy battle.

“What’s so good about our group here is we’re all so supportive of each other,” he said.

“So it is probably a selection headache for the manager. Whoever he picks, I know everyone will be rooting for each other.

“It’s about a real team effort now. If you want to get to the end you’re going to need a full squad. We’ll be really supportive of whoever the manager picks.”

Having spent time surrounded by players he believes are among the world’s best, Rice admits he is keen to emulate some of their achievements at club level.

“100 per cent I want to play in the Champions League. I’ve been playing consistently well for my club and I feel like I really want to keep pushing.

“I see my friends here, who are playing Champions League and for big trophies.

“You only get one career and at the end you want to look back at what you’ve won and the biggest games you’ve played in.”