Loftus-Cheek suspended for Lecce clash – who replaces him?

Ruben Loftus-Cheek is suspended for AC Milan’s next game against Lecce and Stefano Pioli must decide which midfielder will take his place.

As reported by Calciomercato.com, there are a handful of players that could replace Loftus-Cheek in the starting lineup but the coach could also choose to change shape.

Loftus-Cheek picked up a yellow card against Fiorentina in the most recent match which ended 2-1 to the Rossoneri, with Loftus-Cheek scoring.

One problem for Pioli is that Loftus-Cheek has carved out a role as the attacking midfielder in a 4-2-3-1 formation, but there is not necessarily a natural replacement for the No.10 role in this Milan squad.

The most feasible idea right now is to push Reijnders forward into Loftus-Cheek’s position, and then pair Yacine Adli and Ismael Bennancer in the midfield two.

There is an alternative option available though which would perhaps offer more attacking intent. Pioli could decide to move the in-form Pulisic into the centre of the pitch, allowing the rejuvenated Samuel Chukwueze to start on the right wing.

This would be a statement of intent from Pioli and it would allow him to see Pulisic in another role, but the intensity Lecce showed against AS Roma on Matchday 30 could force the coach into a more conservative approach.