Ruben Loftus-Cheek has claimed in his pre-match press conference that he has become even faster this season.
The midfielder has enjoyed his best run in the Chelsea team this season, particularly under new manager Graham Potter.
He has featured in all 11 Premier League games this season, starting the last four in the top flight since the former Brighton man took over.
The 26-year-old has been required to play in multiple positions in recent weeks following a plague of injuries to key players.
As well as his favoured midfield role, the England international has been required to play as a right wing-back due to the absence of Reece James.
His versatility is important, and it has resulted in far more minutes on the pitch.
Loftus-Cheek feels faster
This has delighted Loftus-Cheek, who has claimed an extended run in the team has brought out the best physical attributes from him.
He said: “Yeah I’m very happy with the time I’ve had on the pitch. Like you say I’m feeling the strongest, fittest, quickest I’ve been, which is great because I missed a bit of pre-season with the first team. But I worked hard and I feel good this season, so I have no complaints.”
The midfielder will certainly be in contention for selection tonight against RB Salzburg, where they have an opportunity to secure their place in the last 16 of the competition.
Qualifying will be some achievement for the Blues, who earlier in the campaign sat on just one point from two games.
With a double header against Serie A champions AC Milan to come, and a manager with no experience in the competition, they brought out consecutive huge results to almost secure their place in the knockout phase.
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