Black Stars coach Kwasi Appiah chase for Bayern Munich target Callum Hudson-Odoi is finally over following the youngster’s call-up into the Three Lions squad for the forthcoming Euro 2020 qualifiers against Czech Republic and Montenegro.
The English-born Ghanaian international’s impressive performances for Chelsea has earned him a first call-up to the senior England squad by Gareth Southgate after being invited into the U-21 side last week.
‘It’s been a crazy day but getting my first call-up is an amazing feeling,’ Odoi told Chelseafc.com.
‘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 U21 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.” he added
The 18-year-old attacker has made 19 appearances for the Blues this term, scoring four Europa League goals and once in the FA Cup victory over Sheffield Wednesday.
Hudson-Odoi has represented England from Under-16 to Under-19 level, most notably at the Under-17 World Cup in 2017 when the young Lions went all the way and lifted the trophy in India.
Hudson-Odoi featured in every game at the tournament and assisted three goals in the final against Spain. It capped a glittering year for the youngster in which he also helped our Under-18s win the FA Youth Cup and Under-18 Premier League, before retaining both titles the following season.
England host Czech Republic on Friday night before travelling to Podgorica to play Montenegro on Monday evening.