Chelsea Midfielder Doubtful For England-Nigeria Friendly In June

Chelsea midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek is doubtful to play for the Three Lions when they take on Nigeria in a pre-World Cup friendly at the National Stadium in London on June 2.

On loan to Crystal Palace at the end of the season, Loftus-Cheek has suffered an ankle injury and could even miss the World Cup in Russia.

The Eagles manager Roy Hodgson, who has not been able to count on the services of the midfielder since December 28, has stated that he might require surgery.

''The injury is more severe than we originally thought and he may require surgery. His treatment is being handled by our doctor and the Chelsea doctor,'' Hodgson told reporters.

''I’d be very disappointed, surgery or no surgery, if he’s not playing before the end of the season.

''But the only way he can make himself available to us, or England, is to be fit — and at the moment that isn’t the case.''

Loftus-Cheek was called up to the England squad for the first time last November for showcase friendlies against Germany and Brazil.

His Chelsea teammates Victor Moses and Ola Aina are expected to feature for Nigeria against England.

Igho Kingsley