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NEWS: Declan Rice set to captain England on his 50th appearance against Belgium

Declan Rice will enjoy a “pinch me” moment when he captains England on his 50th appearance for his country in Tuesday’s friendly against Belgium.

Players of England line up as they wear the new England kit that features a redesign of the St George's Cross during the friendly international soccer match between England and Brazil at Wembley Stadium.

Declan Rice will enjoy a "pinch me" moment when he captains England on his 50th appearance for his country in Tuesday's friendly against Belgium.

Two women looking excitedly at cellphone

The 25-year-old is set to start in midfield at Wembley where he will clinch the milestone appearance for his country.

“I think I have grown so much as a player and a person since I first came into the group at 19,” Rice said.

“I was probably a bit of a nervous player when I first came into the England squad, but as time has gone on I’ve played more big games, more games at major tournaments. I have enjoyed every moment.

“Fifty caps, it is a pinch me moment, it will be an honour. On my 50th cap, to walk out at Wembley in front of my family and friends, it is a great honour, I’m a bit speechless.”

England boss Gareth Southgate has had to contend with a number of injuries, both before he announced his squad and during the camp.

“It is an incredible number who are unavailable to us,” he said.

“I haven’t experienced that before, but it means there are opportunities for other people. It is increasingly difficult at international level.”

Southgate confirmed Jude Bellingham could play the whole game, having recovered from the cramp which forced him off against Brazil on Saturday.

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