Former City winger claims youngster must find opportunities elsewhere
Trevor Sinclair has told Chelsea academy graduate Ruben Loftus-Cheek to leave Chelsea, if only on loan, in order to advance his career.
The midfielder featured in a more advanced role against Championship side Brentford in the fourth round of the FA Cup on Saturday, and again excelled after impressing in the previous round against Peterborough.
Loftus-Cheek has made just six appearances under Antonio Conte this season and, after turning 21 earlier this month, the former Manchester City winger Sinclair has told the midfielder to go elsewhere and gain some much-needed game time.
“One of the highlights for me was Ruben Loftus-Cheek,” said Sinclair.
“He was outstanding. He played in a more forward role in the team and he looked really comfortable and effective in that position.
“It’s a conundrum. You go away and someone gets injured and you could have had an opportunity.
“Or you could be waiting forever.
“He’s not a young man anymore. I feel it would be a good option if he got to a good club and played some football.
“Get the experience and feel like the main man, because he looks like he has the ability to be one.”
Loftus-Cheek is one of very few Chelsea academy graduates not to have been shipped out on loan, but while his colleagues are out across Europe and in the Football League gaining experience, the midfielder has been stuck on the Blues’ bench.
