Declan Rice is expected to be fit enough to start England's FIFA World Cup round-of-16 clash against Mexico on Sunday, despite carrying a neural injury that has been troubling him throughout the tournament.

The Arsenal midfielder was taken off in the closing minutes of England's 2-1 victory over DR Congo in the round of 32, his discomfort visibly apparent as the match wound down.

Tuchel's concern for Rice

Manager Thomas Tuchel did not hide his worry after the DR Congo match, revealing the frank conversation he had with Rice on the touchline. "I asked him. He said: 'I can do it for the team but I am in terrible pain.'" Tuchel added: "When Declan tells you he is in terrible pain then you know he cannot take it any more."

Despite those alarming words, the expectation remains that Rice will line up from the start when England face Mexico at 18:00 local time on Sunday — 01:00 BST on Monday — though kick-off could shift depending on weather conditions.

James and Quansah fitness doubts

Concerns are greater regarding Reece James, who has missed England's last two matches with a hamstring injury. The Chelsea right-back has not yet returned to full training ahead of the Mexico fixture, leaving his availability in serious doubt.

Jarell Quansah, the back-up right-back option, sat out the DR Congo win with an ankle problem of his own. He has stepped up his recovery work in recent days, but it remains unclear whether he will be cleared to feature against Mexico.

England's coaching staff face a selection headache on the right flank ahead of what promises to be a demanding knockout tie.