Declan Rice has declared that he feels confident of delivering an assist 'every time' he takes a corner, urging England supporters to be 'excited' about the team's potential at the World Cup.
The midfielder, who has become one of the Premier League's most consistent corner takers, played a key role in England's 4-2 win over Croatia in their tournament opener. His cross led to the foul that earned a penalty, converted by Harry Kane, and he later assisted Kane's second goal from a corner.
Rice's prowess from set-pieces stems from his Arsenal days, where the Gunners scored a record 19 corners last season en route to winning their first Premier League title in 22 years. Despite criticism of their pragmatic style, Rice says everyone now appreciates the effectiveness of set-pieces.
'I wouldn't ever take corners before, but the set-piece coach and manager at Arsenal saw something in me,' Rice told BBC Sport. 'They said I can put balls in areas from a dead ball that no one else can. Now I feel like every time I put down a ball for a set-piece, I'm going to get an assist or create something dangerous.'
Under England boss Thomas Tuchel, who took over in January 2025, the team has focused on replicating Premier League-style football, including set-piece routines. Rice noted that while training time is limited, the players have been honing their set-piece movements for over a year.
'There's a real gameplan, and it's on me to deliver and the boys to free themselves up in the box,' Rice added. 'England fans can be excited.'
Meanwhile, Chelsea captain Reece James, another set-piece option, dismissed concerns about his injury record ahead of his first World Cup as England's first-choice right-back. James missed recent friendlies due to a hamstring issue but ended the season with 39 club appearances.
'People always talk about injuries and availability, but it's boring now,' James said. 'I focus on being the best I can on the pitch.'