Hudson-Odoi reveals initial confusion over new wing-back role
Callum Hudson-Odoi has admitted that he was a bit perplexed at first when new Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel asked him to play in an unfamiliar wing-back role on the right.
The 20-year-old, who has played as a traditional winger for most of his career, was slotted into a wing-back position in the German’s new-look 3-4-2-1 system against Wolves. Hudson-Odoi was one of the standout performers in what was a drab goalless draw at Stamford Bridge.
Continuing in his new position, the England international then provided the first assist of the Tuchel era for Cesar Azpilicueta to slot home in the 2-0 win over Burnley.
While the starlet admits that the manager’s decision shocked him initially, he feels good after living up to the expectations. Speaking to beIN Sports, Hudson Odoi said:
“When it happened, I was like, ‘I’m playing here…’? I was confused. The next day he told me and I was like ‘oh, I’ve never played there before’. It was a big shock to me.
“I’ve never played this position before. I’ll try my best. He showed me some clips before the game and showed me how to play and what positions to be in when the team had the ball.
“From then I’ve really enjoyed it. It’s not that bad of a position to play.”
The youngster was pushed further forward in the 1-0 win over Tottenham with Reece James taking the right wing-back position. Hudson-Odoi came on as a substitute in the Blues’ most recent 2-1 victory over Sheffield United.
The academy graduate has enjoyed a positive start to life under Tuchel, starting three out of the club’s first four games in the PL under the new gaffer.
While he remains a key squad player in the attack, Hudson-Odoi’s emergence in a wing-back role is sure to hand a boost to the manager’s dynamics moving forward.
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The 20-year-old has featured 23 times in all competitions for Chelsea so far this season, scoring 5 times and providing 4 assists in the process.