Gareth Southgate will allow Reece James and Callum Hudson-Odoi to feature for England at next month’s Under 21 European Championships, according to the Daily Mail.
Both of Chelsea’s talented prodigies have been part of Southgate’s squad in the past year.
They also remain eligible to play for Aidy Boothroyd’s younger Three Lions side.
The tournament will be held in Hungary and Slovenia, with England placed in a difficult group alongside Portugal, Croatia, and Switzerland.
Hudson-Odoi and James’ inclusion would be an extremely welcomed addition to a team admittedly already bursting with quality.
Combined, Southgate has capped the duo seven times. Hudson-Odoi’s last national appearance was in 2019 away to Montenegro.
James played in two Nations League ties last October but was sent off after the final whistle following England’s 1-0 defeat to Denmark.
This will be their dress rehearsal for the senior European Championships this summer.
Southgate already has a serious selection dilemma on his hands.
However, James and Hudson-Odoi could stake an early for a spot if they bring back silverware with the Under 21s.
Their club form will also be a factor.
Thomas Tuchel’s arrival has reenergised Hudson-Odoi and it probably won’t be too long before he does the same with James.
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I think this could be the perfect scenario for Chelsea’s young guns.
Gaining tournament experience at any level is beneficial, especially if it will boost their chances under Southgate.
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