In a surprising but welcome move, AC Milan midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek has been called up to the England national team by manager Thomas Tuchel for the first time in six years. He comes in to replace Adam Wharton, who had to withdraw due to injury.
The decision has been seen as a smart one, rewarding Loftus-Cheek for his excellent performances in Italy. It also shows that Tuchel is willing to select players based on form, regardless of which league they play in. For Loftus-Cheek, it’s a well-deserved second chance to represent his country after a long and challenging journey.
🗣️ A Long and Difficult Road Back
After being part of the squad that reached the 2018 World Cup semi-finals, Loftus-Cheek faced a difficult period, largely due to a major Achilles injury in 2019. He admitted that he had almost given up on playing for England again.
“It’s been a long time,” he said. “I ruptured my Achilles… and it took me a year-and-a-half to feel alright again. So a lot of that period was tough, mentally… being away from the squad for so long, you kind of get used to not going… I just forgot about it and became a fan for the England games. We were so close in 2018 and the boys have been incredibly close in the years after. It was nerve-wracking watching those games.”
🧠 A Versatile Player for Tuchel’s Plans
Now 29, Loftus-Cheek brings experience from playing at a top European club for the past two seasons. Tuchel knows him well from their time together at Chelsea, where he often used the midfielder in various roles, including as a right wing-back. This versatility is a major asset. At AC Milan, he has been playing in a more attacking midfield role, showcasing his strength and ability to carry the ball forward. He is not known for his creative passing, but his power in one-on-one situations and his determination make him a dynamic player who can quickly move the team up the pitch.
⚽ A Sign of New Tactics for England?
Tuchel’s main goal is to win the next World Cup, and England’s recent 3-1 defeat to Senegal may have prompted him to rethink his strategy. Including a player like Loftus-Cheek suggests a possible shift towards a more direct and physical style of play. Instead of focusing purely on possession, Tuchel might want a midfielder who can drive forward with the ball alongside a defensive player like Declan Rice. The selection of other strong midfielders like Elliot Anderson also supports the idea that England might be adding more muscle to its lineup.
🤔 What’s Next for Loftus-Cheek?
While his return is exciting, Loftus-Cheek faces strong competition for a spot in the starting eleven from players like Morgan Gibbs-White and Eberechi Eze. Upcoming games against Andorra and Serbia will be a perfect chance for him to prove his worth. If he can make a good impression and, most importantly, stay fit, there is a real chance he could be part of the squad for next summer’s tournament.
