Ruben Loftus-Cheek Returns to England Squad After Seven-Year Wait
Ruben Loftus-Cheek is back in the England fold. After a seven-year absence, the AC Milan midfielder has received a call-up for the upcoming international fixtures against Andorra and Serbia.
The recall comes after Adam Wharton was sidelined with an adductor injury, as reported by The Athletic.
Wharton suffered the knock during Crystal Palace’s 3-0 victory over Aston Villa, leaving the pitch in the second half at Villa Park.
Oliver Glasner confirmed the injury after the game. “Hopefully, it’s not too serious. We will make scans tomorrow so they (Wharton and Ismaila Sarr) can’t go to the national teams, and then let’s see.”
This setback created an opening for Loftus-Cheek, with Thomas Tuchel quick to act. The 29-year-old midfielder will now have the chance to add to his England caps.
Ruben Loftus-Cheek has been added to the England squad for the first time since 2018, for their upcoming World Cup qualifiers. [@David_Ornstein] pic.twitter.com/kiU97JXtYg
— That’s Football! (@ThatsFootballTV) September 2, 2025
Loftus-Cheek last played for the Three Lions in November 2018. At the time, he was a Chelsea prospect on the rise. He was again called up in March 2019 but had to withdraw.
Since leaving Stamford Bridge, Loftus-Cheek has established himself at AC Milan. Now in his third season at the San Siro, he has made 71 appearances, scored 11 goals, and provided three assists.
Despite a season recently marred by injuries, he has returned to form, opening the current campaign with a goal in Milan’s 2-0 victory over Lecce on Friday.
With England’s next fixture at Wembley against Andorra on 6 September, Loftus-Cheek has the perfect stage to remind fans why he was once considered one of the country’s brightest midfield talents.
This recall not only strengthens England’s midfield options but also marks a personal milestone for Loftus-Cheek, who is eager to make a mark after years away from the national team setup.
