Despite a transfer saga that saw a number of bids from Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich, Callum Hudson-Odoi opted to sign a new contract at Stamford Bridge which could mark an era of first-team prominence for the highly-rated prospect.
Hudson-Odoi, 19, broke through under Maurizio Sarri in the 2018/19 campaign, despite the Italian’s reluctance to start the youngster.
The academy graduate proceeded to make his England debut before making his first Premier League start, though under the management of Frank Lampard Hudson-Odoi is poised to excel for the Blues both domestically and in Europe.
Given Lampard’s belief in youth so far in the 2019/20 campaign, the 19-year-old’s profile as a highly-rated prospect could mean he is given further opportunities in the first-team.
Despite not starting any league games so far in the current campaign, Hudson-Odoi came on as a substitute in the club’s 2-0 victory over Brighton & Hove Albion and registered an assist for Willian’s goal in the second half.
The forward could potentially start in Chelsea’s Premier League fixture against Southampton on Saturday, and if Lampard does afford him an opportunity in the starting XI, it could present the chance for the talented youngster to nail down a more regular starting berth; especially considering the fact that Christian Pulisic has not been featuring regularly for the Blues.
Hudson-Odoi’s new contract until 2024 is representative of the importance that Chelsea’s hierarchy have placed on his shoulders, and if given the chance in the 2019/20 campaign, the 19-year-old is likely to show his sheer ability whilst playing a significant role in Chelsea’s domestic and European pursuits in Lampard’s first season in charge at the club.
