It’s been a whirlwind year for Ruben Loftus-Cheek. After spending a few years treading water at Chelsea, the Englishman was given the chance to stretch his wings at Crystal Palace, and he certainly took his chance. The Englishman quickly transformed into one of the Premier League’s brightest young talents, becoming the focal point of the Palace attack within a matter of weeks at Selhurst Park.
Impressing with his energy, dribbling and technical ability, Loftus-Cheek showed just why Chelsea rate him so highly. That form eventually led to a World Cup call-up with England, and whilst he wasn’t a regular under Gareth Southgate, he did pick up a couple of starts over in Russia.
Now, he’s back in the Chelsea first team squad – but for how long? Well, according to the Sun, he’s seeking clarification on his first-team future – and this comes after he was left out of Chelsea’s squad to face Arsenal on Saturday.
Of course, Loftus-Cheek got a few minutes against Huddersfield on the opening day of the season, and despite looking decent, Maurizio Sarri deemed it suitable to promote Mateo Kovacic in his place instead.
Rightly or wrongly, that’s led a few of the Chelsea fans on Twitter to consider his future. They aren’t sure that the Englishman will sit around and wait for his chance, and many are expecting him to depart Chelsea sooner, rather than later.
Take a look at what they’ve had to say below…
Can't help feeling that Loftus Cheek's Chelsea journey is going be another case of close but no cigar when it comes to Blues Academy starlets establishing themselves in the first team at Stamford Bridge. Would fully understand if he sought a move as big a shame as that would be. pic.twitter.com/NnjrYatNS9
— Mark Worrall (@gate17marco) August 20, 2018
Can’t help feeling that Loftus Cheek’s @ChelseaFC journey is ending… Would fully understand if he sought a move away from the Bridge #CFC pic.twitter.com/gDqMwVITlg
— Mark Stevens (@markstevens_cfc) August 20, 2018
Looking at how kovacic played, he must be thinking how do i get ahead of him
— Robin Coles (@robinacoles) August 20, 2018
I’m worried for him because Kovacic looks good and Barkley has started well. Left out the squad completely against Arsenal he’s not going to get a look in until we start playing Europa and domestic Cup but I agree it won’t be enough for him. Shame because he’s such a talent.
— Dean Drury (@deanodrury_) August 20, 2018
It would be a huge shame. Can he play on the left? If so he could challenge Marcos Alonso for that slot; Marco not necessarily right for every game. Also, aren't we supposed to have quota of English players?
— Simon Forrester (@SFclarity) August 20, 2018
I fully expect him & Drinkwater to leave befor the window closes. With Kovacic for me taking the 3rd CM spot along with Kante & Jorginho,Barkley & Cesc is who will cover. Sarri said he only ever had 1 CM on his bench so even Cesc or Barkley will miss out on match days also.
— (@DavidTReeves) August 20, 2018
There could potentially be another loan & return. If he goes somewhere and has a stellar season, he could replace Kovacic next season when he returns to RM.
— Robert CFC (@AfcRoberto) August 20, 2018
Best time for Loftus-Cheek to have asked for a move was when the news of Kovacic's loan to Chelsea was completed. I don't see Loftus-Cheek playing more than Europa and some cup games this season. At this rate I strongly doubt if he has a future at the club.
— Laredo ❤️ Memecoin (@laredo80) August 20, 2018
I'm afraid Loftus-Cheek will probably need a season long loan in order to get some game time in him. There's just way too much competition for places in midfield this season. #CFC
— Nicky Lam (@ntklcfc) August 20, 2018
Chelsea fans – thoughts?
Let us know below!
