Tuchel explains decision to pick Loftus-Cheek

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Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel said he decided to start with Ruben Loftus-Cheek against Malmo because of the physical presence he offers.

The Blues are without Mateo Kovacic and N’Golo Kante as well as Mason Mount for tonight’s Champions League match.

And Tuchel told BT Sport he was keen to try to compensate for the loss of the combative Kovacic.


Loftus-Cheek’s inclusion alongside Jorginho in midfield meant Ross Barkley and Saul had to settle for places on the bench.

“He is a bit like the type of Kova – he likes to drive with the ball,” Tuchel explained.

“He’s using his physical ability more and more and that’s what we want.

“He deserves it. He was good in the last matches he started and hopefully it is a good mix between Jorgi and Ruben.”