Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri says Ruben Loftus-Cheek has become a ‘complete’ midfielder.
The 23-year-old starred when given a rare opportunity from the start on Wednesday night, scoring one and creating another in Chelsea’s comprehensive 3-0 win over Brighton at Stamford Bridge.
The England international enjoyed a successful loan spell at Crystal Palace last season, but has found opportunities limited under Sarri starting just two league games since returning to Chelsea.
Despite his lack of starts, the midfielder has now scored eight goals in all competitions and Sarri admits he is pleased with the development of the academy graduate so far this season.
“Loftus is a very good midfielder,” Sarri said at his pre-match press conference.
“At the beginning of the season he was a very offensive midfielder. Now he is complete I think. Maybe he’s ready to start most of the games, but we need to check every day the condition of his back.
“This morning he had only a recovery session. Because he needs time to recover after a match.”