England player spotted 'limping' during Croatia game as injury concerns raised

England made a winning start to the 2026 World Cup as they secured a 4-2 victory over Croatia; however, there are concerns around one key player as he was spotted limping off the pitch.

Harry Kane got a first-half brace as England went in at halftime all square before, immediately after the break, Jude Bellingham added a third before Marcus Rashford wrapped things up late on to secure all three points.

Thomas Tuchel will be pleased with this start, but he will know that there will be things his side can work on, particularly in defence, having conceded two goals in the first half.

The first thing the England manager will need is a fully fit squad, but in the defensive department he could be down a player after they were spotted limping off the pitch when being substituted.

Declan Rice is the linchpin between the defence and the midfield while also providing cover to the backline, so the fact that he was spotted limping off the pitch will be worrying for England, Tuchel, and their fans.

The Arsenal star was removed from play in the 72nd minute to be replaced by Rashford, with Bellingham dropping deeper to cover his absence in the midfield.

While Tuchel has several options to replace Rice, the German will be hopeful that the 27-year-old is not seriously injured and can be deemed fit for the next match.

England training

READ MORE: Thomas Tuchel involved in furious row with England player minutes into Croatia game

England will play Ghana in their next fixture on Tuesday night, and while he may not be required for the Three Lions to get past this challenge, Tuchel would surely like to have Rice available.

As the tournament progresses and the opposition becomes more difficult, Tuchel and England will need all their best players available to help them win their first World Cup in 60 years, including Rice, as he is key to the transitional play for the side while also providing necessary defensive cover.

The Arsenal star was key to the England victory over Croatia as he provided an assist and created four chances for his teammates, while he was key in holding possession for his side as he had an 89% pass completion in the 72 minutes he was on the pitch.

Rice was pivotal to Arsenal’s Premier League-winning campaign and their march towards the Champions League final; so much is resting on his shoulders, along with the likes of Kane, Bellingham and Jordan Pickford, to deliver World Cup glory for the English fans so they can finally utter the words, ‘It came home.'