Chelsea’s Thomas Tuchel argued against Callum Hudson-Odoi transfer – ‘I told him straight’

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Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel has admitted he refused to let Callum Hudson-Odoi leave the club in search of more minutes in the summer. Tuchel also accepts it was unfair to use Hudson-Odoi as a right-wing-back but is delighted he is now taking his chances in attack.

In the summer, the 20-year-old was strongly linked with a Stamford Bridge departure, searching for regular game time.

Sky Germany reported he had agreed personal terms with Borussia Dortmund, although Chelsea weren’t interested in loaning him out.

And Tuchel has revealed that he played a significant role in the exciting forward’s decision to stay and fight for his place.

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On Monday, Tuchel explained Hudson-Odoi showcased what he could do in attack during pre-season after being denied an exit.

He told reporters: “It wasn’t like we wanted to get him [Hudson-Odoi] out, and he stayed. We didn’t let him leave.

“We built the squad, and Callum was a piece of the puzzle. He thought it might be tough to get minutes, and it might be easier at another club. But you can never be sure.

“I told him straight, when he asked, that it was not possible. We rely on him, and we feel he can still make huge progress within this group and club.

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“Was it always fair to play him as a right wing-back? No, maybe not. But he had to take it for the team and was always positive.

“He had a good pre-season when we saw what he could do on the left half side.

“He struggled to prove that during matches, but it was important he showed up and delivered with injuries, and this is what he did.

“To get a place in this team, it’s all about performance and this is what Callum shows at the moment. It’s important he shows consistency, stays hungry, and keeps on going.”

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With Timo Werner and Christian Pulisic currently out injured, Hudson-Odoi has started the last two Premier League games.

He is still playing a rotational role this season but has impressed on the left-wing, particularly in Chelsea’s 7-0 demolition of Norwich City last month.

The young Englishman will hope for continued opportunities under Tuchel after he persuaded him to remain in west London.

He just adds to the German boss’ incredible squad depth as Chelsea look to reclaim the Premier League title come May.

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