It was like Gladiator. Leaving the security of the dug-out, clutching nought but his dignity, Loftus Cheek stepped out to the field of play. Back hunched against a cool northerly breeze, he was sent to prepare, alone, ahead of his team-mates to face the baying masses. Heavy in heart, we in the West Stand watched on in trepidation. Too many talents have slipped through the net in the Abramovich age; so many indeed that we began to fear that John Terry was the final bastion of the home-grown blue star.
Some twenty-three minutes into the second half, Cesar Azpilicueta sent a low ball skimming across the 18 year box. Arriving late, Loftus Cheek connected sweetly to send it beyond Luke Daniels. Matthew Harding, erupt. Hope, in the fresh face of the twenty year old midfielder sliding across the turf to celebrate his first senior goal.
After a disastrous season, we are too often reassured by familiar noises. With one of the most successful youth academies in the world, our club is weighed down by the pertinence of expectation. Ruben Loftus Cheek exemplifies this. Possessing all the natural attributes to rise straight to the top of the game, he’s been made to wait for his chance. Rare and inconsistent cameos reduce his effectiveness, and further decrease his value to the club.
The questions remains largely unanswered as to whether Loftus Cheek deserves a more regular spot on the team-sheet. He was an unused substitute against a severely under-strength Manchester City team – would that game have been ideal breeding ground for one of England’s finest young talents?
Our conundrum rumbles on – Matic has been largely unconvincing this season whilst Fabregas is far more influential in an advanced role. Mikel is a game player, but lacks the creativity to inspire a team who continue to under-perform. Having shipped Ramires off to China for a pretty penny or two, can Loftus Cheek fill the breach?
It’s worth examining what the 20 year old can bring to the team. Energy and power in abundance, not least due to his sizeable frame. He’s skilful, a good retainer of possession and his distributional skills have improved since his showing against Liverpool last May.
It is also worth noting that he’s far from the finished article. He’s a little casual in style, and lacks the burning desire that emanates from the likes of Willian. Commitment is a hard thing to teach.
I’m pleased that Loftus Cheek remains on our books. Hiddink clearly thinks highly of the England U21 international, and Chelsea’s next boss has the power to make or break his career at the club. There is no disputing his talents. Wait too long and someone else may decide it’s been long enough. And we all know Chelsea love to sell to a rival…
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