One of the more interesting things to match in this Chelsea – Norwich game was the return of Ruben Loftus-Cheek for the first time since our game against Aston Villa, and the second time in 12 months since his injury.
The midfielder was as slow and ineffective as the rest of his teammates, although he did make a few positive contributions when some others made precisely 0. He was eventually subbed after 67 minutes.
He also got a nasty knock on his ankle from Todd Cantwell in the second half, which might explain his removal. He certainly wasn’t dreadful by any means, but he’s nowhere near the level we saw a season ago under Maurizio Sarri.
His performance split the opinion of fans, some of whom claim he’s just a “JLS Huddlestone” and is “done”, and others who saw signs of positive progress.
You can see a collection of the reaction in the Tweets embedded here:
Doesn't have the confidence to run at people back yet, but overall he was good! Created more than the other two midfielders combined.
— Will Faulks (@willfaulks) July 14, 2020
https://twitter.com/sparkyhmfc74/status/1283140059236110338
Loftus-Cheek is just a JLS Tom Huddlestone
— VARBAR Prez ⚡️ (@Prez_Tweets) July 14, 2020
I promise you, I still don't know what Loftus Cheeks role is…. I really don't
— Siya (@siya_BoB) July 14, 2020
https://twitter.com/SpiengleThomas/status/1283140111388024834
Loftus Cheek took absolutely no initiative in this game will close of the season on the bench
— Juma (@JmJuma1) July 14, 2020
I feel bad for Loftus Cheek
— Massi (@utdmasipapa) July 14, 2020
https://twitter.com/thefreshfavela/status/1283140614637395969
https://twitter.com/RealBenGill/status/1283141385768574976
Why is Loftus-Cheek playing too slow? #CHENOR
— Aziz (@Chelseafczeez) July 14, 2020
Get Loftus-Cheek off. Clearly drained of confidence
— Matthew White (@MatthewWh) July 14, 2020
6 years since Loftus-cheek made his professional debut. Guy is still a "promising youngster" 😔
— H (@Lindoh_NG) July 14, 2020
I see potential Loftus Cheek 🙏🏽
— MALOME SIPHO 🇿🇦 (@E_nobaSeegee) July 14, 2020