'For the team': Tuchel admits he's not always been playing Chelsea star in his best position after Malmo tie
Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel has admitted he’s guilty of not always playing Callum Hudson-Odoi in his best position after his performance against Malmo.
Hudson-Odoi came off the bench last night to provide a brilliant assist during a 4-0 victory in the Champions League group stages.
The 20-year-old was deployed in an attacking position on the left, something he did regularly throughout his development at youth level.
He’s spent most of his first-team career on the wings. However, Tuchel has used him as a wing-back at times during his tenure, too.
Tuchel explained in post-match comments after Malmo that he’s fully aware the English speedster’s best position is as a left forward.
“This is his best position [left wing] but sometimes he needs to help as a right wing-back. He needs to take it for the team but we know the left position up front is his best position,” Tuchel said.
Injuries open door for Hudson-Odoi
If injuries to Romelu Lukaku and Timo Werner are as bad as first feared, there is a window of opportunity for Hudson-Odoi. In addition, you’ve got to factor in that Christian Pulisic is still out injured.
Hudson-Odoi offers versatility in the Blues squad, but it’s no secret he loves playing in attacking positions.
The trickster is so dangerous cutting infield from the left with his pace, agility and directness on the ball.
This is now the time that he must make his impact.
He’s a superb talent to come out of the academy with over 100 senior appearances, but it still feels like he’s trying to prove himself a top player.
Defenders will hate facing him
Hudson-Odoi is somewhat of a throwback to a traditional winger with the way he operates with the ball at his feet.
Southampton’s Timo Livramento recently called him one of his toughest opponents and he’s a nightmare for full-backs.
A confident Hudson-Odoi can bring so much to the Blues XI, which is why a lot of eyes are going to be on him to see how he steps up in the next few weeks.
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