Chelsea’s ideal midfield for the beginning of the Frank Lampard era

LCM (LAM) - Ruben Loftus-Cheek

Chelsea v FC BATE Borisov - UEFA Europa League - Group L

'Made in Chelsea' as they label him, Ruben Loftus-Cheek was arguably the biggest positive for the west London side besides the Europa League triumph last season.

He was always going to be a big player rising through the ranks on to the biggest stage, but the ever-so-talented midfielder received little or no opportunity about two years ago. Maurizio Sarri included him in his plans, but didn't believe the youngster was ready yet due to a supposed void in the player's tactical acumen.

However, Loftus-Cheek grabbed every opportunity with both hands, as he proved to be the only midfielder to share the goal-scoring burden with Eden Hazard. It's important to note that Willian and Pedro are not getting any younger, and the likes of Callum Hudson-Odoi and Christian Pulisic are yet to truly taste the arduous nature of the Premier League.

Thus, Loftus-Cheek's eye for goal, impressive decision-making off the ball in the final third and clinical finishing gives him an upper edge.

Defending, work rate, heading, dribbling, finishing, linking up play, intercepting - there's nothing this boy cannot do on the football pitch.