Rice's Growing Confidence in Dead-Ball Situations
England midfielder Declan Rice has voiced his conviction that he will secure an assist "every time" he delivers a corner kick, urging England supporters to anticipate an exciting performance at the upcoming World Cup. This confidence comes after England's opening 4-2 victory over Croatia, where set-pieces proved to be a significant threat.
During the match, Harry Kane's initial goal, a penalty, stemmed from Noni Madueke being fouled following a cross by Rice. Kane then netted his second goal directly from a Rice corner. Rice, who is England's vice-captain for the tournament, was a key figure in Arsenal's Premier League title-winning season, where the team set a record by scoring 19 goals from corners alone and 25 from overall set-plays.
Speaking to BBC Sport from England's base in Kansas City, Rice commented on the newfound appreciation for set-pieces, stating, "Everyone's enjoying them now, aren't they?" He explained that his role as Arsenal's designated set-piece taker began in January 2024, following a mid-season training camp in Dubai. "[Set-piece coach] Nico [Jover] and the manager at Arsenal saw something in me that others didn't," Rice revealed, noting their belief in his unique ability to deliver the ball from dead-ball situations.
This endorsement bolstered his belief. "As time has gone on I feel like now every time I put down a ball for a set-piece – whether it's a corner or a wide free-kick – I feel like I'm going to get an assist or make something happen that's dangerous," he added, concluding that this positive mindset should excite England fans.
England's Tactical Approach to Set-Pieces
England manager Thomas Tuchel, who took charge in January 2025, has emphasized a playing style that mirrors the Premier League's intensity. Rice confirmed that while tactical aspects of the game dominate training, set-pieces have been a consistent focus since Tuchel's arrival.
"We only get a small amount of time here to work on them because we have to work on loads of other stuff," Rice explained. However, he noted that the format and execution of set-pieces have been established over the past year. "A lot of the way we've taken them hasn't changed much in terms of the movements, the way I deliver the ball... The lads know what's coming... where I'm going to deliver the ball. So there's a real gameplan and it's just on me to deliver and obviously the boys have to free themselves up in the box."
Reece James Addresses Injury Concerns
Chelsea captain Reece James, another player capable of taking set-pieces, acknowledged the "huge threats" within the England squad. The 26-year-old, working with Tuchel previously at Chelsea, is participating in his first World Cup as England's primary right-back. James has faced scrutiny regarding his injury history and ability to maintain fitness, particularly after a hamstring injury at the end of the 2025-26 season kept him out for four weeks.
Despite missing some international games, James returned for Chelsea, making 39 appearances across all competitions, and secured his place in the World Cup squad. Addressing the persistent questions about his fitness, James stated to 5 Live in Kansas City, "People always talk about injuries and availability, and to me it's so boring now." He emphasized his focus on performance: "I have one job, which is to be the best I can when I'm on the pitch... I just focus on myself, my body, trying to perform the best I can and help the team I'm playing in."
Source: Rice feels like he will get an assist at every corner