Loftus-Cheek's comeback lauded and has been compared to a former Man City player

The youth product looked like he needed a move elsewhere to fulfil his potential but to his credit, he has become a key player for the Blues as they look to win their first league title since 2017.

Having made his senior debut in 2014, Loftus-Cheek might be slightly disappointed he didn't fulfil his potential earlier, but he is certainly doing so now.

Crucially, his rejuvenation has been noted by Rio Ferdinand and former Chelsea duo Eni Aluko and Joe Cole.

"I think we've talked about how Tuchel uses his squad," Aluko told BT Sport.

"A lot of these players have been out in the cold, they've been out on loan, Loftus-Cheek is the perfect example of that and I think for Chelsea he gives the extra dimension in midfield.

"At times its been a little bit laboured but he comes in with this drive, that power, the energy he brings to the midfield that Jorginho doesn't necessarily have or [Mateo] Kovacic doesn't necessarily have.

"He's keeping himself fit as well which is really important, so its good to see him back and challenging those positions for midfield.

"I love him," added Ferdinand, "he's a fantastic specimen first and foremost.

"I liken him in full flow, like we are seeing him now, to Yaya Toure. He can intimidate players, when he turns and gets in full pelt."

"He's a fantastic player and I really want him to take the game by the scruff of the neck tonight" Cole said.

It will remain to be seen if Loftus-Cheek can reach the heights that Toure did, but with the praise he has been given, he certainly has the capability of reaching the same feats as the illustrious former Manchester City player.