Brazilian forward undecided on Fulham return next season
Tuesday 29 May 2018 17:45, UK
Lucas Piazon says Ruben Loftus-Cheek’s place in the England World Cup squad is evidence that Chelsea’s loan system has improved.
Loftus-Cheek, one of 38 Chelsea players who spent last season away from the club, earned a call-up to Gareth Southgate's side after impressing on loan at Crystal Palace.
Piazon has been loaned out of Stamford Bridge every season for the past five years, with previous spells at Reading, Malaga, Vitesse Arnhem and Eintract Frankfurt.
The 24-year-old will return to his parent club this summer after consecutive seasons at Fulham, helping them earn promotion to the Premier League with victory in the Championship play-off final on Saturday.
When asked about whether he thought the loan system at Chelsea helps young players, Piazon said: "I think it is getting better now. Ruben [Loftus-Cheek] is a great example. He is going to the World Cup and he was on loan at Palace.
"A lot of players did well on their loans and they got a move or are back in the Chelsea first-team.
"The boys are understanding better what a loan is and what you have to do well to develop for the Chelsea first-team or for another team.
"The system is improving and our understanding of the system is also improving. It is working better now.
"The contact they have with us now is more consistent as well. A few years ago the contact was every once in a while, now it is much more. We feel a little closer to the club."
Piazon scored six goals in 25 appearances for Fulham this season and has not ruled out a third stint at Craven Cottage.
Asked if he had discussed a return to the club, Piazon said: "Not yet. We spoke briefly after the game [play-off final]. Everyone was so excited and the chats were not properly serious.
"We have got time. Last year it was the same, we didn't speak much at the end of the season and I ended up coming back. Let's just see what happens."
