EPL: Sarri takes final decision on Loftus-Cheek’s future
Chelsea manager, Maurizio Sarri has reportedly stated that he will not allow Ruben Loftus-Cheek to leave Chelsea during the transfer window in January.
The Chelsea midfielder was linked with a move away from Stamford Bridge during the winter transfer window, after starting just three games this season.
West Ham want to sign Loftus-Cheek as Manuel Pellegrini aims to steer the Hammers’ away from relegation.
However, the Mirror UK is reporting that Sarri will block efforts from Loftus-Cheek to exit the club as he feels Chelsea will need the Englishman during the final months of the season.
Loftus-Cheek reminded Sarri of his talents with a hat-trick in the Europa League clash against BATE Borisov.
The 22-year-old then followed up with an outstanding performance during the clash against Burnly.
Loftus-Cheek’s agent recently said the player would be forced to leave the Blues if his playing time did not improve.
Sarri is yet to hand Loftus-Cheek a Premier League start this season, even as West Ham are willing to make a move for the midfielder.
Loftus-Cheek spoke out on his future and admitted he understood why some people believe he needs to leave Chelsea.
“I hear it a lot, and I can see why people are saying that, because I’m 22 now and haven’t got too many Premier League starts to my name,” Metro UK quoted Loftus-Cheek as saying.
“I haven’t played too many minutes, whether it be in the Premier League and the Championship, and at 22 it’s not seen as enough by some people. I do hear it. I love the club and I love Chelsea, I want to play for Chelsea.
“Last season [moving to Palace on loan] was a decision I made because I hadn’t played any football really, at the age of 21, and last season was great for me at Palace, 24 [appearances] I think I had in the Premier League, and then to go on and make my England debut. I made a lot of steps last year.
“Playing football was massive for me and you can see why people want to see me play, and I want to play as well.”
