Declan Rice promises set-piece assists for England at the World Cup
Declan Rice believes he will provide an assist from every corner he takes as England target set-piece dominance at the World Cup following their opening victory over Croatia.
The Three Lions looked consistently threatening from dead-ball situations during a 4-2 win against the Croatians.
Captain Harry Kane scored a penalty after Noni Madueke was fouled from a dangerous cross, before heading home his second goal directly from a corner.
The 27-year-old midfielder has developed into one of the most reliable dead-ball specialists in the Premier League.
Arsenal success breeds confidence
That transformation began during a mid-season training camp in Dubai back in January 2024.
Arsenal set-piece coach Nico Jover identified a unique crossing technique that convinced the management team to hand over the responsibilities.
The former West Ham captain was instrumental in a historic domestic campaign last season.
His deliveries helped the Gunners score from a record 19 corners on their way to securing a first top-flight title in 22 years.
“I wouldn’t ever take corners or set-pieces, but Nico and the manager at Arsenal saw something in me that others didn’t,” Rice explained.
The combative midfielder admitted that buying into that tactical vision completely changed his mindset on the pitch.
“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.”
Tuchel targeting Premier League intensity
England manager Thomas Tuchel wants his national side to replicate the high-octane style seen weekly in the English top flight.
The German tactician has heavily emphasised dead-ball routines since taking charge of the national team in January 2025.
Despite limited time on the training pitch in Kansas City, the squad has spent over a year perfecting these specific attacking movements.
“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,” Rice added.
Chelsea defender Reece James provides another elite delivery option for the national team as they progress through the tournament.
However, the vice-captain remains confident that his current form should leave supporters incredibly optimistic about their chances of lifting the trophy.
