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Ruben Loftus-Cheek began his journey with the England football team as a product of Chelsea’s academy, earning 10 caps between 2017 and 2018. His performances during the 2018 FIFA World Cup, where he featured as a substitute in England’s run to the semi-finals, reportedly marked him as a potential mainstay for the Three Lions. However, a ruptured Achilles tendon suffered during a friendly against New England Revolution in May 2019, just weeks before Chelsea’s Europa League final victory over Arsenal, derailed his career. The injury sidelined him for over six months, and he struggled to regain his place in both Chelsea’s and England’s plans.
Ruben Loftus-Cheek, the 29-year-old AC Milan midfielder, has candidly opened up about his near seven-year absence from the England national team, reportedly admitting that he "completely forgot" about representing the Three Lions during that period and instead embraced the role of "just a fan". While reflecting on his absence from the game he reportedly said, "I was cheering them on during the Euros and the World Cup, but I wasn’t thinking about being part of it." Loftus-Cheek also added that his focus was on getting back at club level. His resurgence at AC Milan has reignited discussions about a potential international recall.
Ruben Loftus-Creek reportedly found his confidence after his move to AC Milan
The 2019 injury is said to be a turning point for Loftus-Cheek. After returning to action in late 2019, it is claimed by various reports that he faced stiff competition at Chelsea under managers Frank Lampard and Thomas Tuchel. Limited game time reportedly led to loan spells at Crystal Palace (2017-18) and Fulham (2020-21), where he showed flashes of his potential but struggled for consistency. By 2023, with his Chelsea contract nearing its end, Loftus-Cheek sought a fresh start. His £15 million move to AC Milan that summer proved transformative, reportedly offering him a new platform to rediscover his form and confidence.
Since joining the Rossoneri, he has made 71 appearances across all competitions, scoring 11 goals and providing three assists. His physical presence, ability to drive forward with the ball, and versatility to play as a box-to-box midfielder or in a more advanced role have reportedly made him a fan favorite at San Siro. In the 2024-25 Serie A season, he has already contributed two goals and an assist in Milan’s opening six matches, including a standout performance in a 3-1 victory over Inter Milan in the Derby della Madonnina.
With Lee Carsley taking over as interim England manager following Gareth Southgate’s departure after Euro 2024, the door may be open for players like Loftus-Cheek to stake a claim. Carsley, known for his success with England’s Under-21 side, has emphasised a willingness to integrate new faces, as evidenced by recent call-ups for players like Noni Madueke and Morgan Rogers.
