What Loftus-Cheek must do to be a big part of Chelsea squad – Tuchel

Chelsea head coach Thomas Tuchel has highlighted things Ruben Loftus-Cheek must do to be a big part of his Chelsea squad.

The midfielder was supposed to go out on loan this season but his inability to get a club before the close of the transfer window meant he had to stay at Chelsea.

But it looks like he has played his way into the thought of the manager who now fancies using the English midfielder.

The Chelsea academy graduate have started a few games in all competitions under Thomas Tuchel with impressive displays, he was again in top form when Chelsea played Malmo last night.

And his manager has praised his effort and challenged him on what he must do to earn a spot in his Chelsea squad.

“I was a bit worried in the first 15 minutes if Ruben can find another gear but I heard before it was his first Champions League match since 2015 from the start,” Tuchel said after Hakim Ziyech’s goal earned a narrow victory at Eleda Stadion.

“Yeah, I think we can give the boys credit sometimes to be maybe nervous and find their way into the match. I am happy he fought his way through and in the moment it is symbolic for me he does not disappear or stay invisible.

“He wants to dominate opponents, he wants not to just be a part of the game because I think he is too talented to just be a part of the group. He needs to use his full potential – that is the absolute key for him – and if he does like in this moment he can be a big part of the squad.

“That is why I am very happy and after the first 15 minutes he was involved in a lot of dangerous moments for us. I am happy he pushes himself through these little downs and comes up with another strong performance.

“I am very happy with him and the next step is to show consistency and push himself because the limit can constantly be pushed because he has so much potential.”

Ruben Loftus-Cheek who has kept on loan midfielder Saúl Ñíguez on the bench would be hoping to keep his place in the team when Chelsea play Burnley this weekend in the Premier League.