Ruben Loftus-Cheek hints at a significant tactical change for Milan in the Champions League against Bayer Leverkusen, revealing his role is ‘not as advanced’ as Alvaro Morata’s.
It kicks off at the BayArena at 20.00 UK time (19.00 GMT).
The Rossoneri risk being left at rock bottom in Europe’s expanded competition after the 3-1 defeat to Liverpool and are the underdogs in tonight’s trip to the reigning Champions of Germany.
Bayer Leverkusen’s only defeat in all competition last season was the Europa League Final to Atalanta and they began this tournament winning 4-0 away to Feyenoord.
“It’s a big game for the team. We didn’t get off to the best start in the Champions League, so it’s an important opportunity to put in a good performance and get some points on the board,” Loftus-Cheek told Sky Sport Italia.
“On my part, I need to do my best. I haven’t been at my best so far this season, but it’s a long campaign and I hope to do well tonight.”
Loftus-Cheek sees Milan turning point
Milan seemed to be in a deep crisis until beating Inter 2-1 in the Derby della Madonnina, so that was the crucial turning point in their campaign.
“Sometimes moments can change a season and we had one of those moments against Inter. It gave us enormous confidence and it’s important we build on that with a series of results.”
Loftus-Cheek steps in for injured Morata today, but when asked what his tactical role was, he implied it would not be a like for like replacement with the Spaniard.
“I’ve been changing position, today I will be in midfield and not so advanced, but I will still try to get into the box if possible,” he concluded.
This suggests it will be more of a 4-3-3 than the 4-2-3-1 that we have been seeing from Paulo Fonseca in recent games.