Rice: I've played 69 matches this season, mentally and physically exhausted

Published Jul 20, 03:12 AM UTC

England midfielder Declan Rice spoke after the World Cup third-place match, where England defeated France 6-4 to win bronze. Rice described the game as a 'rollercoaster' and expressed pride in scoring his first England goal in a World Cup. He defended coach Tuchel's tactical choices in the semi-final, saying players must take responsibility. Rice expressed confidence in England's future, including the upcoming European Championship. He revealed he has played 69 matches this season, leaving him mentally and physically drained, and emphasized the honor of representing England despite injuries and fatigue. Reflecting on the season, he noted winning the Premier League title and World Cup bronze, expressing pride in his Arsenal teammates and the national team.