According to a recent report by Football.London, Chelsea teen sensation Callum Hudson-Odoi is all set to make his first-team return after the international break in September. Football.London reported earlier this month that the English wing wizard has returned to training with the rest of the Pensioners first-team.
In a recent interview (via Football.London), Chelsea boss Frank Lampard provided an update on the 18-year-old’s current status and said,
“Callum is training, looking bright and sharp but now we’re in the zone where it’s about protecting him, giving him conditioning with fitness, especially in the area of his injury.
“He has had quite a long time out. Like with Rudiger’s injury.
“The international break comes at quite a good time for us with both of those and for Reece James.
“They’re all in a position where, I hope, two or three weeks of strong training puts them back in the frame for the squad and available.”
Why Chelsea Are In Dire Need Of A Natural Winger Like Hudson-Odoi
It seems like Chelsea’s home clash versus Sheffield United tomorrow might come too soon for Hudson-Odoi, but the youngster is in line to make a comeback next month. Lampard’s team have lacked width out on the wide areas with Christian Pulisic, Pedro and Mason Mount all preferring to cut inside instead of getting to the by-line while operating on the flanks. Even Emerson Palmieri and Cesar Azpilicueta are not as effective while trying to stretch the pitch in the final third.
Hence, the Pensioners are in dire need of a game-changer like Hudson-Odoi who can come in and add another dimension to Lampard’s attack. The London-born talent enjoyed a wonderful breakout season in the 2018-19 campaign when he scored six goals and grabbed seven assists in 29 appearances for the West London outfit across all competitions.
What Does The English Prospect Offer On The Field?
Hudson-Odoi is blessed with electric pace and is a very penetrative dribbler with the ball at his feet. He is always willing to beat his marker off the dribble and cause problems in the attacking third of the pitch. However, the Chelsea wonderkid needs to add more productivity to his game if he wants to break into the world-class bracket someday.
Hudson-Odoi To Return In September: Huge Boost For Lampard?
There is no denying that Hudson-Odoi has incredible potential to be a household name in English football if he can continue improving his game with each year. Hence, his return from injury next month will be a massive boost for the Pensioners and their chances of competing for a top 4 place in the Premier League this season.
Lampard still has a lot of work to do at Stamford Bridge before he is ready to deliver trophies. Hudson-Odoi could be the centre-piece around whom the Chelsea boss should consider rebuilding for the future.