England Call-Up A Shock For Hudson-Odoi

By Max Wise

Chelsea youngster Callum Hudson-Odoi says he is shocked to have received a call-up into the England squad ahead of the EURO 2020 qualifiers against Czech Republic and Montenegro.

The 18-year-old winger was due to join up with the England U-21 for the first time side but was told by manager Aidy Boothroyd that he has been promoted to the Three Lions instead.

A number of injury problems has led to John Stones, Luke Shaw, Fabian Delph and Ruben Loftus-Cheek to withdraw from the England squad, opening the way for Hudson-Odoi and Southampton midfielder James Ward-Prowse to join up with the side.

"It's been a crazy day but getting my first [senior] international call-up is an amazing feeling," said Hudson-Odoi.

"Today has been a very long day for me because I had to travel to Bristol first for the Under-21s and then, getting told that I have to come over here to St George's Park, it's been a crazy experience, but I'm delighted to get the call and it's a nice feeling to be here as well.

"I thought the manager [Aidy Boothroyd] was joking. I was shocked and then when I heard that I actually had to go over, I couldn't believe it. I was delighted.

"It's a dream come true. Now I've got to work hard, enjoy every moment and keep working to just hopefully make an impact when I get the opportunity.

“Everybody here is very humble and they're very nice. They make sure you're comfortable, no one has an ego here so hopefully I get to know more of the boys here."

Hudson-Odoi is yet to make a Premier League start for Chelsea, with most of his appearances coming in the cup competitions, but he has five goals this season to show for his efforts.

With just a year remaining on his Chelsea contract, Hudson-Odoi was the subject of a £35m bid from Bayern Munich in the January transfer window which was rejected.