‘Being away from the England team for so long, I got used to not going’ – Ruben Loftus-Cheek savouring England comeback KIK BALL

International football often produces unexpected twists, and one of the latest surprises is Ruben Loftus-Cheek’s recall to the England squad.

The 29-year-old midfielder, formerly of Chelsea and a standout performer for AC Milan in recent seasons, has been called up for the first time since 2019 to face Andorra and Serbia, following an injury to Adam Wharton of Crystal Palace. In a revealing press conference, Loftus-Cheek admitted he had completely forgotten he could return to the national team.

Long absence led Loftus-Cheek to ‘forget’ England

Being away from international duty for so long meant the midfielder had stopped considering a recall. Speaking ahead of the Andorra game, he said:

“Being away from the squad for so long, you kind of get used to not going, even if you still want to push in club football to hopefully get a sniff,” he admitted. “I watched the finals at home with my family. It’s almost more nerve-racking watching on the telly than playing in those games for England so I hope I’m not watching another one.”

Loftus-Cheek, who played at the 2018 World Cup in Russia, has only ten caps for England, his last appearance coming in the 2019 UEFA Nations League. Injuries and club changes meant a return seemed unlikely, but his strong form in Milan has put him back on the national radar.

During his time at Chelsea, Loftus-Cheek made 155 appearances, scoring 13 goals and providing 18 assists, though he never fully hit the heights expected. He also had loan spells at Crystal Palace and Fulham before joining Milan in 2023.

Reunion with Tuchel after Chelsea

The recall also offers the chance to work again with Thomas Tuchel, now England’s head coach. The German knows Loftus-Cheek well from their time together at Chelsea and did not hesitate to call on him again.

“When I went back to Chelsea, he spoke to me about playing right wing-back. I said: ‘No, no, no.’ But I played there anyway. I played many positions under him.” Loftus-Cheek explained.

The midfielder did not hide his excitement at the reunion.

“He’s very intelligent, knows the game really well. I hope we can connect again and that I can help the team,” he added.

Interestingly, Tuchel has managed Loftus-Cheek more than any other coach, with 46 games under his guidance, ahead of Stefano Pioli and Maurizio Sarri, who both used him in 40 matches.

Loftus-Cheek’s call-up comes as a surprise in the England setup but could provide a boost to the midfield with his experience and versatility. A regular starter at Milan, he has enjoyed consistent game time at a high level—something that eluded him during his years at Chelsea.

This article was originally published on Trivela.

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