Ruben Loftus-Cheek has been reborn in Italy thanks to his experience at AC Milan.
He’s a complete player who replaced Sandro Tonali, after his summer transfer to Newcastle, not only in the heart of the midfield but also in that of Rossoneri fans.
His transfer to Italy was considered a calculated risk by AC Milan, who chose the most cost-efficient replacement for Italian midfielder – only spending £17million (€20m) on Loftus-Cheek.
The better climate, the sudden change in diet and the presence of Rossoneri coaches specialised in the prevention of muscle overload allowed Loftus-Cheeck to become one of the irreplaceable players for Stefano Pioli – despite his previous injuries.
Here, Mail Sport’s Alvise Cagnazzo takes a look at the midfielder’s resurgence since arriving on Italian soil.
Ruben Loftus-Cheek has found his best form once more since moving to AC Milan in summer
His performances in Milan have lead to suggestions he deserves an England recall
The numbers don’t lie…
During his 24 games in Serie A – a personal best for him at this point of the season – Loftus-Cheek has managed to provide five goals and one assist.
Even in the Europa League the former Chelsea star has proved to be decisive – having recorded three goals from his three appearances in the competition.
Loftus-Cheek has become a fundamental element of Stefano Pioli’s Milan and the hope from the Rossoneri is that the Premier League has forgotten about him.
Following his goals against Rennes and Slavia Prague in Europe, Loftus-Cheek needs just three more goals to match his best-ever tally in a season.
During his 75 minute cameo in the game, in addition to the 2 goals, he played 33 balls, completed 21 passes without errors and completed two dribbles.
Under the guidance of Stefano Pioli (L), Loftus-Cheek has become an indelible part of the side
Southgate needs a player like him…
With Jordan Henderson and Kalvin Phillips struggling, it’s a surprise that Loftus-Cheek’s name hasn’t cropped up in England conversations more often.
In fact, Gareth Southgate should consider handing the AC Milan star a starting place in England’s midfield.
The times of Steve Gerrard, Paul Scholes and Frankie Lampard are long gone however Loftus-Cheek – given his impressive physical condition – can be on a par with his illustrious predecessors.
In the last month and a half, Loftus-Cheek has scored double the goals he had scored in the previous five seasons combined – which must…