AC Milan midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek is expected to return after the international break having picked up an injury against Lazio this past weekend.
The 27-year-old was forced off in the 30th minute of our 2-0 win on Saturday, and he appeared to be in some discomfort as he made his way to the sidelines.
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In turn, that sparked concern that he had perhaps picked up a blow that would rule him out for a while, but the latest news is relatively positive despite the fact that he is expected to miss time this week.
According to Antonio Vitiello, Loftus-Cheek underwent an MRI scan on Monday morning which showed a mild muscle injury, and although no further tests are scheduled, he will be monitored daily to keep an eye on his recovery.
Vitiello added that the Milan ace is expected to return after the upcoming international break, which in turn means he’s now likely to miss our encounters with Borussia Dortmund and Genoa in the next few days.
It’s a blow considering the impact that he has made since his summer arrival, adding physicality, athleticism and a goal threat from midfield, while building a strong balance and partnership with the likes of Tijjani Reijnders and Christian Pulisic in our new-look midfield and attacking unit.
Time will tell which solution Milan boss Stefano Pioli feels will be the most effective option in his absence, as Yunus Musah and Tommaso Pobega could both start against Dortmund, while Yacine Adli could be rested in midweek before returning to the starting XI against Genoa.
The Rossoneri are of course still without long-term absentee Ismael Bennacer, while Rade Krunic picked up a knock of his own last month and remains sidelined.
In turn, that does limit us in midfield and Loftus-Cheek’s setback is a further blow, but it’s hoped that we can continue to build momentum and extend our good form without him, and hopefully he’ll have made a full recovery and is ready to return against Juventus on October 22.