The debate over Ruben Loftus-Cheek's future will likely fall silent until December, with confirmation that Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri intends to hold onto the England international until, at least, the winter transfer window opens.
The 22-year-old was reportedly upset over his omission from Sarri's matchday squad ahead of last weekend's victory over Arsenal, prompting suggestions that he could be set for another loan spell.
However, Sarri put an end to that notion.
"I have spoken with him twice this week after I spoke with the club," Sarri told reporters, according to Matt Law of The Telegraph. "So I think that Loftus will remain with us. We can speak again about his situation, but I think only in December (before the January transfer window)."
Sarri also explained that his omission from the matchday squad last weekend was based on tactical reasons.
"It was only a decision about the positions," he said. "I chose to put on the bench two wingers and only one midfielder."
A report earlier this week suggested that Chelsea officials told Loftus-Cheek, who spent last season on loan at Crystal Palace, that he would have to fight for his place in Sarri's midfield.
It's understood that Loftus-Cheek's preference to another loan move was triggered by his desire to maintain Gareth Southgate's confidence in him after the England manager included him in the country's World Cup team this summer.
Chelsea will attempt to preserve their perfect start to the season during Sunday's encounter with Newcastle United at St James' Park.
