When we talk about football, we are always fascinated by players who can change positions on the pitch at will. Recently, AC Milan midfielder Loftus-Cheek shared his football journey and how he feels about playing in different positions in an interview with Milan TV, which made me think about the endless possibilities on the football field.
Loftus-Cheek says he has played in a variety of positions throughout his career, from B2B midfield in the number eight position to the wings, and even in defence and attack. This ability allows him to play more diverse roles on the field and also makes him feel more fun playing. He emphasised that being an all-round midfielder means being able to have a bigger impact on the game.
For Loftus-Cheek, physicality is one of his most important abilities. The combination of his speed, power and technical ability allows him to make his mark on the field. He talked about his ability to contribute both in attack and defence, which is a quality he must have as a midfielder.
In the games against Torino and Roma, Loftus-Cheek's position and mission were different. He shared how he adapts his position and strategy to his opponents, which not only shows his tactical flexibility, but also shows his deep understanding of the game. Especially against Roma, he had a wide area of contact and showed his all-round contribution on the pitch.
As well as talking about his change of position, Loftus-Cheek also stressed the importance of winning the confrontation in Serie A. He said every confrontation is a battle, especially in midfield. Using your strength and physicality to overcome your opponents is crucial to your team's victory.
Loftus-Cheek also spoke about his 100 per cent pass completion rate in the final third, reflecting his precision and decision-making ability in attacking midfield. He admits that while running and dribbling are generally preferred, he is aware of the need to improve on key passes.
Through recaps of game footage and discussions with coaches, Loftus-Cheek has been working hard to improve his technique. He shared his first assist against Torino and his partnership with Christian Pulisic and Olivier Giroud, showing how he can build a bond with his team-mates on the pitch and create chances together.
Loftus-Cheek's journey and his diverse role on the pitch not only impressed me with his abilities, but also made me realise the endless possibilities on the football pitch. In this team sport, every player has the opportunity to showcase their unique talents, and Loftus-Cheek is the perfect embodiment of this versatile spirit. His story inspires us to adapt, learn and improve both on the football pitch and in life.