Rob Green praised Chelsea’s Callum Hudson-Odoi after his England Under-21s performance on Thursday afternoon, but admitted it’s “worrying” when he continues to drop into deeper positions and would prefer to see him up the pitch.
England’s youth team made the worst start yesterday in the European Under-21s Championships, as they were beaten 1-0 by Switzerland in the opening group stage match.
Despite the fact there were several average performances from England players, Chelsea’s rising star was a bright spark for the Three Lions.
Hudson-Odoi, who started the game as a right-winger, looked the most creative outlet for his country.
The 20-year-old speedster showed some great promise with some quick direct dribbling and he saw plenty of the ball, but it didn’t quite happen for England in the final third.
Pundit Green highlighted the fact that it played into Switzerland’s hands when Hudson-Odoi came short looking to get on the ball.
“I think what I was worrying about is when he started to drift deeper and deeper,” Green told Sky Sports’ Football channel in his post-match analysis (25 March).
“He’s the best player on the pitch. He’s England’s best player. He’s the most creative player, and Switzerland must have been thrilled when he was picking the ball up on the halfway line.
“Callum Hudson-Odoi was picking the ball up 50 yards from goal. That’s where Switzerland want him. They weren’t getting the key men with the ball in the danger area.”
The Chronicle View
It was a really poor display from England’s Under-21s on Thursday, and it’s no surprise that Hudson-Odoi went searching for the ball over the park to try inject some life into the game.
If they are to get out of their group, the Chelsea man is surely going to play a key role.
He’s been an important part of the side at Stamford Bridge since Thomas Tuchel took charge of Chelsea manager, and his strength is attacking full-backs one-on-one.
Hudson-Odoi has found success in a wing-back role that allows him provide real width.
Alternatively, the English winger can operate higher up the pitch.
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