England: Backup brigade burn bright in final tune-up before World Cup

LEEDS, ENGLAND - JUNE 07: Marcus Rashford of England celebrates with team mates after scoring the opening goal during the International friendly match between England and Costa Rica at Elland Road on June 7, 2018 in Leeds, England. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images) /

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34 - Ruben Loftus-Cheek completed every single pass he attempted for England in the game against Costa Rica tonight (34/34). Control. pic.twitter.com/ibuNIDyWBu
— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) June 7, 2018

It’s been a strange old season for Loftus-Cheek, mainly because he’s been a part of Crystal Palace’s topsy-turvy campaign. But given his chance to play amongst better players, he really rose to the occasion. His physical presence offers a completely different dynamic to the England midfield, and his link-up play and comfort with the ball at his feet were good to see too.

I don’t think he’ll start for England in the World Cup. Jesse Lingard or Dele Alli are preferred options. But, I think he could be extremely handy against Belgium. They are a lot more physical than either Tunisia or Panama.

If he can really have an impact against the best side in the group, he might well find himself in the team for the knockout stages. His performance this season, especially if he has a good World Cup, might see Loftus-Cheek’s parent club Chelsea actually bring him back to wear blue.

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