The competition is tough in Chelsea’s midfield with several of their stars capable of producing the level of performance Maurizio Sarri demands but Ruben Loftus-Cheek is doing his best to stake a claim for a permanent spot.
The likes of Ross Barkley and Mateo Kovacic have had bright periods so far in the campaign and they also deserve a shout. In fairness, they have both had cracks at consistent first-team chances, while Loftus-Cheek hasn’t. The young England international’s showing against Bournemouth in the EFL Cup quarter-final was a masterpiece as captured by Squawka on Twitter.
Ruben Loftus-Cheek's game by numbers vs. Bournemouth:
85 touches
63 passes (86% accuracy)
4 take ons completed
3 shots
3 chances created
2 interceptions
1 shot hit woodwork
1 aerial duel wonPoint. Proven. pic.twitter.com/wkoBWatQYh
— Squawka (@Squawka) December 19, 2018
The 22-year old’s display was highlighted by the ease with which he beat his man and find teammates. He was confident on the ball and his shots were well taken, albeit not always on target. The fans at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday night were appreciative and you get the feeling the youngster is pushing his seniors out of the first-team already.
He has started only 14 games in all competitions this season and scored six goals in the process making him the highest scorer from the Blues midfield. His ability to play as one of the front three also makes him a great option for Sarri for the remainder of the season.
