Declan Rice admitted his mother was not happy after photos of him looking badly sunburned during England's World Cup preparations in the United States went viral. The incident occurred before the tournament, with promotional pictures showing him with a bright red face while training in Florida.
What happened to Declan Rice?
The Arsenal and England midfielder became one of the talking points before the tournament after the photos were released. Rice explained that the strong Florida heat was a shock when the squad first arrived.
The midfielder said the photos caught everyone's attention, including his family. "I think everyone has seen those photos. I was bright red in that photo shoot. My mum was killing me!" Rice said.
How did Declan Rice adjust to the heat?
Rice explained that the first day in Florida was just getting used to the heat. Coming from England where it's hot-cold and all different types of weather to Florida where it's always 30 degrees, it really does hit you in the face.
The England team knows similar weather conditions could happen during the World Cup. "Yeah definitely," Rice said. "The manager said that's what we are going to face at this tournament."
What's next for Declan Rice and England?
Rice believes he is in a strong position heading into the tournament. "I feel good as gold. I feel really fit, really strong," he said. Rice also believes winning the Premier League has given him extra confidence.
Now that he has won the Premier League with Arsenal, Rice thinks he can achieve big things with England. "Now I have got over that line with Arsenal it has given me that confidence that we can come here and achieve big things as well. I'm really in a good place at the moment."
Rice reflected on Arsenal's success and Champions League pain. The club won the Premier League title but later lost the UEFA Champions League final to Paris Saint-Germain. "I think it's been more mentally tough than physically," Rice said.
The emotions you go through on a football pitch are ridiculous, Rice added. Despite a demanding season, Rice is confident and ready for the World Cup.
England's friendly against Costa Rica in Orlando started an hour late because of a tropical storm. The team must be ready for sudden weather changes, including thunderstorms that can stop matches.
Rice and England are preparing for the challenges they will face during the World Cup. The midfielder is focused on the tournament and is feeling confident after his success with Arsenal.