England Recalls Midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek After Six-Year Absence

Ruben Loftus-Cheek has made a surprising return to the England national team after nearly seven years, receiving a late call-up from manager Thomas Tuchel for World Cup qualifiers against Andorra and Serbia. The 29-year-old midfielder, now with AC Milan, ruptured his Achilles tendon in 2019 during a friendly for Chelsea, which sidelined him for 18 months and caused a lengthy absence from international duty. During this time, Loftus-Cheek said he mentally struggled but eventually accepted being a fan of England rather than a player, though he never gave up hope of a recall. Tuchel, who previously managed Loftus-Cheek at Chelsea, values his physicality and versatility, which the midfielder credits to Tuchel's coaching. Loftus-Cheek is eager to contribute to England's efforts to end their trophy drought and is embracing the opportunity to play multiple roles on the field. His recall marks a significant comeback following a long rehabilitation and a transfer to AC Milan, where he has performed strongly in recent seasons.