Everton are reportedly keen on Ruben Loftus-Cheek.
Sam Allardyce has told the Daily Star that Chelsea midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek needs to decide his future based solely on where he will be able to play the most games.
Loftus-Cheek, 22, has come up through the ranks with Chelsea having joined the club back in 2004, but he has found first-team football hard to come by at Stamford Bridge.
The midfielder has made just 32 appearances for Chelsea, and just 22 of those have come in the Premier League, with the Blues eventually choosing to loan him out last summer.
Chelsea sent Loftus-Cheek to London rivals Crystal Palace for the duration of last season, and he enjoyed a promising season, bagging two goals and three assists in 24 Premier League outings.
Loftus-Cheek’s displays for Palace earned him a place in the England World Cup squad, and not only did he come off the bench against Tunisia, but he also started against Panama and Belgium.
Loftus-Cheek has impressed with his driving runs through midfield, and whilst many believe that he should be in the Chelsea side next season, the Blues seemingly haven’t decided yet.
The Mirror reported last week that Everton are now hopeful of landing Loftus-Cheek on loan for the season, but with manager Antonio Conte potentially leaving, no decision looks imminent.
Now, former England, Palace and Everton boss Sam Allardyce has told the Daily Star that much will depend on Conte’s future, but he wants to see Loftus-Cheek go and play wherever he will be given the biggest role, as he can’t stay at Chelsea and be sat on the sidelines.
“It depends on Antonio Conte,” said Allardyce. “Is he going to play for Chelsea? If you’re going to play for Chelsea, and certainly he’s showing that he’s good enough to play for Chelsea, that’s his dream club obviously. Look what going on loan has done for him.”
“If Loftus-Cheek hadn’t gone on loan to Crystal Palace this season he would be nowhere near the World Cup squad. And because he’s gone to Crystal Palace at 22, which is far too late in his career, look what he’s achieved. So if he’s got no future at Chelsea then get to a Premier League club as quick as you can and shine and continue to grow,” he added.
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