Lack of first-team football has cost Loftus-Cheek – Wilkins
Ray Wilkins believes Ruben Loftus-Cheek’s lack of first-team opportunities at Chelsea has prevented him from matching the achievements of Dele Alli.
Tottenham playmaker Alli, 21, has established himself as a major star at club and international level since being signed from MK Dons.
In contrast, Loftus-Cheek, also 21, started just six Premier League matches prior to joining Crystal Palace on a season-long loan during the summer.
The Hillingdon-born Wilkins, who has served Chelsea as a player, coach and assistant manager, has long argued that youngsters should be given more of a chance at Stamford Bridge.
And he believes the fact Alli played first-team football for MK Dons while Loftus-Cheek was waiting for an opportunity at Chelsea explains the current difference between the two players.
Speaking on Sky Sports News, Wilkins said: “The great thing is that he went from MK Dons and has nearly played 200 league games now – and internationals he has played.
“So this guy, at 21, has already played 200 games. Phenomenal.
“You look at some of the other guys of his age, and I go to our own Loftus-Cheek at Chelsea – I think Loftus-Cheek has immense talent but he hasn’t played at this level and he hasn’t played the amount of games that this guy (Alli) has played.
“I think he has similar qualities – he can score goals. But Dele Alli went to MK Dons and played and I think it’s vitally important that you get the game time under your belt.”
