Sarri explains decision behind excluding Chelsea powerhouse in 3-0 win over Southampton

Maurizio Sarri has claimed that Ruben Loftus-Cheek was rested after not featuring against Southampton.

The English midfielder played in midweek against Vidi, which was his first start of the season but didn’t impress in the Europa League game.

Chelsea beat Southampton 3-0 thanks to goals from Eden Hazard, Alvaro Morata and Ross Barkley.

Sarri was asked if Loftus-Cheek was injured and replied (h/t Sun):

“No, not at the moment.

“I preferred for him after 70 minutes in the last match for the first time in the season, I preferred for him to have training.”

Barkley, however, seized his opportunity well as the Englishman scored a goal and recorded an assist. The former Evertonian has grown under Sarri and seems to be getting back to his best.

Sarri also spoke about the improvement from the Englishman and the manager was happy with the goal he scored.

“From the beginning he has improved day by day, week by week and match by match.

“So I am very happy with him and for him, for the goal, for the national team.

Loftus-Cheek spent last season on loan at Crystal Palace and was a first-teamer for the Eagles. That isn’t the case at Chelsea, and the youngster might have to wait for his chances to impress the manager.

Read more: Crystal Palace manager interested in re-signing Chelsea youngster

There is no doubting the ability of Loftus-Cheek and hopefully, he will perform brilliantly in the next game.