Why Loftus-Cheek introduction could be key to success against Panama
It’s been widely reported for some time that Ruben Loftus-Cheek would come into the starting line-up for England this weekend, and the Chelsea star will have his chance to shine against Panama.
Coming in for the injured Dele Alli, who will sit out of the match due to a thigh strain, there are a number of reasons why the former Crystal Palace loanee is deserving of a place regardless.
The 22-year-old may only have played the last ten minutes against Tunisia in the Tottenham midfielder’s stead but it was a cameo performance that helped England to all three points in their group opener.
With Alli visibly tiring and affected by an injury sustained in the first half, Loftus-Cheek’s introduction helped to spark some life back into the Three Lions attack, often drifting to the right and driving towards the opposition defence. His ability to do the latter is what has seen the youngster get the nod ahead of the likes of Fabian Delph and Eric Dier in stepping into the side, but it’s his physicality that may well have seen Loftus-Cheek come into the XI regardless.
A rare breed of player that has a true blend of technique and power, the midfielder will be able to hold off some strong challenges where many of his teammates may struggle. An average of three successful dribbles per game was comfortably the most of any Englishman in the Premier League last season, with Loftus-Cheek using his upper body strength to brush opposition defenders aside and glide past them with ease.
Breaking past deep-lying midfielders and linking with the forwards will be key against a side that will sit deep and while Loftus-Cheek has his flaws, this game is tailor made for the international newcomer to impress.
Without having to concern himself too much with his defensive positioning - an issue that has left him with limited opportunities to showcase his talents at Stamford Bridge and saw him played in a wider berth at Palace - the youngster will have the license to do what he does best, knowing Jordan Henderson will play the holding role in the middle ground.
If he can make his mark in Nizhny Novgorod, there’s no reason why Loftus-Cheek couldn’t start against Belgium in the final match in Group G, with both manager’s potentially rotating their sides.
While many felt that his World Cup call-up may have been to offer the experience of senior tournament football rather than a leading role, the midfielder could yet be a pivotal player to England’s progression.
