Ruben Loftus-Cheek fully focused on World Cup, not his Chelsea future

England manager Gareth Southgate picked a rather youthful squad for this summer’s World Cup. With Gary Cahill the only true veteran presence (50+ caps), Southgate has opted for a “youth revolution” in taking the third youngest team to Russia. Chelsea’s other representative, Ruben Loftus-Cheek, at 22, is only the fourth youngest on the team in fact, after Trent Alexander-Arnold (19), Marcus Rashford (20), and Dele Alli (also 22).

How well all that will work out for the Three Lions remains to be seen, but for Loftus-Cheek himself the task is simple. One just has to focus.

“I always try to improve my game but this was my first real season as a Premier League player. I didn’t play as much as I wanted because of the injuries, but I am excited for next season and just want to play a lot again.”

“I’m not thinking about [going on loan again] too much right now. I’m trying to focus on this summer and what’s to come.”

“This tournament is too big to be overlooking and not giving my full focus. Right now my mind is on that.”

Just a few months ago, there were real concerns that RLC would not be able to play again this year. Now he’s heading to the World Cup thanks to some stellar showings late for Crystal Palace. Focusing purely on that adventure is the right move. The future can wait that much longer. It’s not like it hadn’t waited for long already. What’s another few months?

“But I have to go back to Chelsea for pre-season anyway, that is where I will be after the World Cup. So I will decide, when that time comes.”

“I’m not too worried [about the future]. It will get sorted.”

-Ruben Loftus-Cheek; source: London Evening Standard

Staying at Chelsea is certainly an option for RLC — especially if he turns some heads the World Cup — as the Blues will be looking for depth ahead of a new season with (potentially) a new coach. If not, perhaps he will agree to head out on loan yet again.

Until all that, good luck in Russia, RLC!