Tuchel wants more from Loftus-Cheek as midfielder fights for Chelsea future

Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel says he wants to see Ruben Loftus-Cheek work at 150 per cent with the midfielder’s long-term outlook at Stamford Bridge uncertain.

Loftus-Cheek has been linked with a move away from the Premier League club, with Lazio reportedly among those interested in landing his signature.

The England international, who has been with Chelsea since the age of eight, spent last season on loan at Fulham, making 32 appearances in all competitions.

Having replaced Frank Lampard in January, pre-season has provided the first opportunity for Tuchel to work with the 25-year-old, who has featured in friendlies so far against Bournemouth and Arsenal.

Although pleased with Loftus-Cheek’s current performance levels, the German hopes the player can do even more as he tries to push his case for regular first-team action.

“It’s too early to judge Ruben,” Tuchel said. “He has everything in his hands and it’s on him to decide his own future like every player. 

“He has to keep on going 150 per cent because 100 per cent is not enough.

Back in blue pic.twitter.com/suKkwRcYa4

— Ruben Loftus-Cheek (@RLC) July 27, 2021

“Generally, I am happy and that’s why he plays, he deserves to play at this point of the preparation.

“But I think he can do even more; he can show up more. He can show more physical capability and drive more with the ball.

“I’m never satisfied with him. I have the feeling we need to push him to the absolute limit.

“Ruben needs to show everything now in some weeks if that’s possible.”

Reigning Champions League winners Chelsea face Tottenham in their final pre-season game on Wednesday, before playing Europa League champions Villarreal in the Super Cup the following week.

Their Premier League campaigns begins at home to Crystal Palace on August 14.