Declan Rice has already become part of England's World Cup conversation before the tournament has properly got going. He joked that he was “bright red” in the official photoshoot in Florida, and said his mum had been giving him stick for the sunburn. The harder issue is the one Rice keeps coming back to: coping with the heat and carrying more responsibility as England's vice-captain.

Why Florida and the vice-captaincy matter

Rice said the first day in camp was about getting used to the heat, and that coming from England's mixed weather to Florida's 30 degrees “really does hit you in the face”. That is a real adjustment, but it is only part of the story. Thomas Tuchel made Rice vice-captain when Harry was not in camp and did not play against Wales, and the role comes with obvious expectations.

Tuchel called Rice “one of the very best midfielders in Europe at the moment”, while also saying he is “full of confidence” after an outstanding two seasons with Arsenal. Stuart Pearce took a different line, saying Rice could win a game on his own because of his physical prowess and ability on the ball, but that he might do “a little bit more”. Roy Keane was more direct, saying Rice has to show “a bit more leadership skills” and get hold of people.

Rice's recent form backs up the confidence around him. He has averaged 7.48 across his last 5 matches, played 445 minutes in that spell and hit a best recent rating of 8.3. He also said he had a week off after Arsenal's Champions League final loss and came back feeling fresh, fit and confident. Arsenal have won their last 5 matches, so he arrives with momentum rather than baggage.

The title line around Arsenal needs a small caveat. Rice has spoken like a player coming from a title-winning season, while the curated standings only show Arsenal top of the Premier League table. Either way, the form and the mood are clearly on his side. The more interesting question is whether England want him simply performing, or performing and leading. Based on the reactions from Tuchel, Pearce and Keane, they are asking for the second version.

Compiled by the ClutchBrief Desk with AI assistance, cross-checked against 2 outlets. How we work →