In Video: Ruben Loftus-Cheek admits surprise at England call-up following seven year absence from squad

England’s International Return: Loftus-Cheek Hops Back in after 7-Year Exile

Loftus-Cheek’s Emotional Return

England’s Ruben Loftus-Cheek has confessed that he had forgotten about playing for the national team until his international return was confirmed. The midfielder is back with the Three Lions’ squad after a 7-year absence, which began under Gareth Southgate in November 2018. Loftus-Cheek’s comeback comes after a difficult period in his life, with injuries and personal struggles affecting his career.

A Long-Time Injury Struggle

Loftus-Cheek was set back in 2019 when he ruptured his Achilles tendon in a friendly game in the United States. He was out for almost a year, which affected his mental and physical health. Despite the setback, he has made significant progress, particularly under Thomas Tuchel at Chelsea and AC Milan, playing in a more advanced role. England’s coach is likely to deploy him as a defensive midfielder once more, where he has extensive experience.

The Tuchel Factor

The striker-turned-midfielder spoke highly of his former coach at Chelsea, who played a pivotal role in his international return. Under Tuchel, Loftus-Cheek has adapted to various positions, demonstrated his versatility and ability to learn and adapt. Tuchel’s appointment at England has given Loftus-Cheek hope of regaining a spot in the national team.

Pressure on Tuchel

Loftus-Cheek’s arrival in the England squad places more pressure on Thomas Tuchel to deliver a major trophy with the Three Lions. However, former striker Jay Bothroyd believes that the international break has been too short to determine if Tuchel is an upgrade on Gareth Southgate. There is still an air of uncertainty about Tuchel’s identity and team selection as he continues to experiment and find the right balance of players.

England’s Task Ahead

Loftus-Cheek’s return and Tuchel’s coaching represent a new era for England, which places pressure on the team to make progress and channel their efforts towards the 2026 World Cup. However, both the player and manager have ambitious goals, aiming to add glamour to the England squad.

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