Ruben Loftus-Cheek discusses his journey from injury setback to England recall. He reflects on the challenges he faced, the lessons he learned, and his determination to contribute to England’s success in the upcoming World Cup qualifiers. His versatility under coaches like Thomas Tuchel has been invaluable.
Ruben Loftus-Cheek is back in the England fold, a moment that seemed distant during his injury struggles. Once a promising Chelsea midfielder with World Cup experience, Loftus-Cheek's career faced a significant hurdle during a friendly match against the New England Revolution in 2019. This setback not only disrupted his club career but also his international aspirations.
Loftus-Cheek's journey hasn't been straightforward since that fateful injury. After a promising 2018-19 season with Chelsea, where he scored 10 goals and looked forward to the Europa League final against Arsenal, disaster struck. A ruptured Achilles tendon in a post-season friendly sidelined him for an extended period. This injury forced him to reassess his career and battle through both physical and mental challenges.
Now, years later, Loftus-Cheek finds himself back in the England setup, a testament to his resilience and determination. The midfielder received a late call-up to replace the injured Adam Wharton, marking a significant milestone in his comeback journey. He is savoring every moment, cherishing the opportunity to represent his country once again in the World Cup qualifiers against Andorra and Serbia. This recall signifies not just a return to the international stage but also a personal victory over adversity.
Reflecting on the injury, Loftus-Cheek admits the timing was particularly disheartening. The injury occurred right before the Europa League final and the Nations League finals with England. It took him nearly two years to physically recover and even longer to mentally process the setback. However, the experience has instilled in him a sense of calm and perspective. He describes himself as being “at peace with the past,” a mindset that allows him to approach his career with renewed focus and determination.
During his time away from the England squad, Loftus-Cheek became an avid supporter, watching from home as the team reached the finals of Euro 2020 and 2024. He acknowledged the nerve-racking experience of watching from the sidelines, further fueling his desire to return to the pitch and contribute directly to the team's success.
After his injury, Loftus-Cheek embarked on a loan spell at Fulham, which proved to be challenging but ultimately helped him regain his footing. A return to Chelsea saw him working under Thomas Tuchel, who played a crucial role in his development and versatility. Tuchel recognized Loftus-Cheek's physical attributes and technical abilities, utilizing him in various positions, including right wing-back, central midfield, and even central defense.
His transfer to Milan in the summer of 2023 marked a new chapter in his career. Under the guidance of manager Max Allegri, Loftus-Cheek has continued to develop and showcase his abilities. He has found himself surrounded by a host of new teammates after a busy transfer window including Luka Modric, Adrien Rabiot and Christopher Nkunku.. His performances in Italy have undoubtedly contributed to his England recall, demonstrating his growth as a player and his commitment to the sport.
Loftus-Cheek's ability to adapt to different positions has been a valuable asset throughout his career. He credits Tuchel for challenging him and pushing him outside of his comfort zone. Whether playing as a No 6, a No 8, or even in defense, Loftus-Cheek has consistently demonstrated his willingness to put the team first. This versatility makes him a valuable asset to the England squad.
Looking ahead, Loftus-Cheek is determined to make the most of his second chance. He understands the competitive nature of international football and is prepared to work hard to earn his place in the team. With his newfound perspective and unwavering determination, Loftus-Cheek is ready to embrace the challenges ahead and contribute to England's success on the world stage.