Ian Wright has backed Callum Hudson-Odoi to reclaim his place in the England team, questioning why he would want to play for the Under-21 team.
Hudson-Odoi has been in superb form for the Blues in recent weeks but missed out on a call-up for World Cup qualifiers against Albania & San Marino.
The Chelsea star was instead offered a chance to join up with Lee Carsley’s Under-21 squad instead, but turned down that chance in order to solidify his place in Tuchel’s plans during the break.
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That decision surprised Gareth Southgate who believed the player was missing a big chance by snubbing the call-up.
Ian Wright however believes Hudson-Odoi is on the right track to reclaiming his place in the senior team.
Speaking after England’s 1-0 victory over San Marino, the Arsenal legend said playing well for your club will be the biggest factor in earning senior call-ups, citing the example of Conor Gallagher who made his debut on for England on Monday.
‘That is the kind of player you want to see, you want to see players of that calibre getting towards the full international squad instead of playing in Under-21s,’ Wright told ITV, referring to Gallagher who has starred on loan for Crystal Palace this season.
‘I would say the same of Callum Hudson-Odoi. ‘He’s broken into the Chelsea side as tough as it is, he’s had a career threatening injury, why would you want to play in the Under-21s?
‘That doesn’t get you into the first team. Playing well for you club like Conor is and like Callum is doing, that is what gets you in there.
‘And it is good to see people like Conor get in there. Hopefully he can continue.’
