Ruben Loftus-Cheek has been seen as the latest in a long list of Chelsea youngsters who have been unable to make the grade simply because they do not get enough first-team opportunities. After spending on loan at various clubs, Loftus-Cheek was finally expected to make the grade at Chelsea this season and he had in fact established himself as an England international even before doing well at Chelsea. The 22-year-old was a part of the England squad that went to the World Cup 2018.
After having featured in less than 90 minutes so far this season, Loftus-Cheek was finally given the opportunity to start when Chelsea took on MOL Vidi in the Europa League. There is a tendency for youngsters to miss such opportunities after having been on the sidelines for a long time; the nervousness and sense of occasion often gets to them. However, Loftus-Cheek came in with an impeccable performance before being substituted in the 65th minute. While there is a sense of disappointment of not featuring for the full 90 minutes, the midfielder made quite a lot of impression.
Now, he has openly claimed that he feels that he is ready to be part of the Chelsea first-team, who are can be backed to win the title using bet365 bonus codes. However, Loftus-Cheek claims that he cannot play in every match but has to be ready whenever the time comes. Speaking to Sky Sports, he said:
“We’re winning nearly every game now and Chelsea are one of the best clubs so there are going to be top players in the starting XI.
“I think it’s down to us to work hard and keep improving as much as we can in training – even though we’re not playing – and to try and stay sharp because you might get an opportunity.”
Maurizio Sarri has often preferred Mateo Kovacic, who is on loan from Real Madrid, for a place in the starting line-up. Even the likes of Cesc Fabregas have struggled for a starting spot and the impact of the Croatian cannot be argued. Kovacic has been a vital part behind the style of play that has made Eden Hazard extremely successful this season. Kovacic not only contributes going forward but he is also extremely good at tracking back and defending for his teammates.
Loftus-Cheek is certainly not the finished product and he will have games in which his performances are not the best. Yet, it is all about remaining patient and taking the chances that come along his way.