Analysing Ruben Loftus-Cheek’s man of the match display vs Germany

While on the face of it England’s 0-0 stalemate with Germany may not live long in the memory, there’s no denying it was a success for Gareth Southgate and his bold squad selection in particular.

When the news broke of the likely Three Lions starting line-up early on Friday few gave the hosts a prayer against Joachim Loew’s side after all.

There were full debuts for Jordan Pickford, Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Tammy Abraham after all, while Joe Gomez was a first half substitute as he made his senior bow to boot. While all four played their part to give the manager something to think about next summer and their chances of a place in Russia no harm at all, there’s no doubt as to which stole the show.

Indeed, Ruben Loftus-Cheek wasn’t merely the standout player from the England debutants but on the night as a whole as his confidence and swagger ensured the hosts weren’t overrun or overawed.

It was an incredibly assured display against such esteemed opposition from the 21-year-old, who’s mere physical presence instilled a sense of optimism in the home support. When a player makes his first appearance after all, there is understandable concern as to whether he can cope with the pressure but Loftus-Cheek did far more than that.

His combination of strength and skill enabled England to break at speed when necessary but also slow down play and keep possession.

Ruben Loftus-Cheek pass map - England vs Germany (10.11.17)

From 52 passes, the youngster was accurate 96.2% of the time despite playing a number of probing passes that could have led to goals on another night. He created two chances, with 41 of said pass attempts coming in the Germany half.

Moreover, a total of four successful dribbles was the most on display at Wembley to provide the drive from midfield that the absent Dele Alli and Adam Lallana offer the side.

All in all Loftus-Cheek not only earned a man of the match rating of 7.63 on Friday night but may just have earned  a spot at the forefront of the mind of a manager that knows all about what he could bring to the side in Russia next summer.