AC Milan star called up to England squad in late change | OneFootball

Loftus-Cheek Returns to England Squad

Ruben Loftus-Cheek has once again found his name written on an England teamsheet. The former Chelsea midfielder has been called into the national squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Andorra and Serbia, Sky Sports News has reported.

Opportunity Opens Through Injury

The door for Loftus-Cheek’s return appears to have been pushed ajar by circumstance. Adam Wharton, the Crystal Palace midfielder enjoying a promising season, sustained a muscle injury during Palace’s 3-0 victory over Aston Villa on Sunday. With Wharton now a concern, England’s coaching staff have turned to a familiar face.

Photo IMAGO

There are suggestions Loftus-Cheek has been asked to join up by Thomas Tuchel following an injury worry over Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton.

For now, the FA has remained silent, offering neither confirmation of Wharton’s prognosis nor formal acknowledgement of Loftus-Cheek’s call-up.

Connection with Tuchel

That Tuchel has played a role in the recall adds a layer of intrigue. The German coach worked closely with Loftus-Cheek during his time at Chelsea, recognising his ability to glide past opponents with power and elegance. The trust built during those Stamford Bridge years may explain why Tuchel views him as a reliable option at a time of need.

Tuchel worked with Loftus-Cheek when he was in charge of Chelsea.

Fresh Chance in National Colours

For Loftus-Cheek, this is more than a routine squad inclusion. His international career has been punctuated by promise, setbacks and the constant question of what might have been. A return at this stage represents not just cover for an injured colleague, but also a chance to stake a claim for a role in England’s wider plans.

The players are meeting up today for England duty. That gathering will bring with it the familiar intensity of selection battles and the sense that every opportunity, however fleeting, carries significance. For Loftus-Cheek, the challenge is clear: remind England of the qualities that once made him a player of tantalising potential.