Ruben Loftus-Cheek was decisive in AC Milan’s 3-0 win against Stade Rennais tonight, and he once again stressed that he is playing in his preferred position.
Milan put themselves in a very commanding position in their Europa League play-off round tie against Rennes by securing a three-goal lead heading into the return game in France next week.
Loftus-Cheek was the man who set the tone once again, scoring his first of the night by heading a pinpoint Alessandro Florenzi cross inside the far post with a beautiful glance.
He then doubled the advantage not long after and it was with his head again. This time a corner was flicked on by Simon Kjaer and saved by Mandanda, but the Englishman was on hand to convert into an empty net.
Rafael Leao netted the goal of the night as he thumped home a cut-back from Theo Hernandez after he had found the full-back initially with a brilliant backheel.
Loftus-Cheek spoke to Sky Italia after the full-time whistle to reflect on what was a job very well done in the first leg, with his comments relayed by MilanNews.
Your reaction to the game?
“The mission is not yet accomplished. We knew we had to win tonight in view of the return leg. It’s a victory important, but we’re only halfway there. I always try to have fun on the pitch, I’m playing a lot. I’m fine and I feel free when I play.”
Is this your best position?
“I have played in different roles, this position is the one I prefer because I am closest to the goal. I was found free twice and scored two goals.”
Your goals tally has really increased…
“It’s not important to think about the number of goals at the end of the season, I just think about one match at a time and then we’ll see.”
Can Milan go all the way in the Europa League?
“We have the qualities to win it. But let’s think about it one match at a time. We have a good advantage going into the return leg.”
