Ruben Loftus-Cheek has said he is enjoying his football under Graham Potter and feels he is striking up a strong midfield connection with Mateo Kovacic and Jorginho.
The England international has been a consistent performer under Potter, either at right wing-back or in central midfield, and Loftus-Cheek has explained that he sees his versatility as a plus point for the team, especially if the head coach looks to tweak the formation during a game.
On top of that, Loftus-Cheek has also expressed his pleasure at playing – and learning – from team-mates Kovacic and Jorginho in the centre of the park, with the midfielder pinpointing the strong connection the trio are starting to showcase in Chelsea blue.
Loftus-Cheek will hope to be involved from the start this evening, as we look to secure our place in the knockout stage of the Champions League with victory over RB Salzburg in Austria.
‘For me, individually it doesn't affect me,’ said Loftus-Cheek of being asked to play a number of roles.’ I'm quite versatile, if I need to change position or tweak a position, I am comfortable with it. As a team, we are all comfortable with it.
‘We've got some really good players that are used to it. We are top players that need to adapt, if the manager asks then we have to do it to the best of our ability.
‘I’m enjoying my football under him [Potter]. It’s been a long while since I was playing regularly, back in 2019. A lot has gone on between then and now and it’s really good to play with Jorgi and Kova frequently.
‘It’s good to get a strong understanding with them both. I feel like we are finding a balance and connecting, and getting a better understanding of how they both play.
‘It’s the most I’ve played for Chelsea consistently. That’s another positive and when I look at my career, it’s been tough and I want to get as many positives are possible. Now I just want to kick on.’
Ruben has also offered an insight into how he has been tapping into the minds of other elite sport stars, revealing he spent time with Andy Murray earlier this year and how a chat with the British tennis player has helped him put his injury worries behind him and look ahead.
‘I went to see Andy Murray train and play which was a fantastic opportunity,’ said Ruben.
‘We had a chat while the Laver Cup was on. It was good to see how he sees himself in his career and to talk about the injuries that have hindered him. It was a good chat to compare our careers, where injuries have impacted us and how you come through the other side.
‘I feel good now, I feel physically strong and injury-free. That’s a big positive for me, I’m in form right now and that’s a big plus point.’