Chelsea winger Callum Hudson-Odoi has been called up to the England senior squad for the first time.
The 18-year-old was originally with the U21s, but has now joined the rest of Gareth Southgate’s side as they prepare for the European Qualifiers against the Czech Republic and Montenegro.Hudson-Odoi has had limited chances to impress at Stamford Bridge this season and has yet to start a Premier League match, but has scored five times in 19 matches in all competitions.“It’s been a crazy day but getting my first [senior] international call-up is an amazing feeling,” Hudson-Odoi said.“Today has been a very long day for me because I had to travel to Bristol first for the U21s and then getting told that I have to come over here to St. George’s Park, it’s been a crazy experience but I’m delighted to get the call and it’s a nice feeling to be here as well.
“I thought the manager [Aidy Boothroyd] was joking. I was shocked and then when I heard that I actually had to go over, I couldn’t believe it. I was delighted. It’s a dream come true.“Now I’ve got to work hard, enjoy every moment and keep working to just hopefully make an impact when I get the opportunity.“Everybody here is very humble and they’re very nice. They make sure you’re comfortable, no one has an ego here so hopefully I get to know more of the boys here.”Manchester United defender Luke Shaw has withdrawn from the squad through injury, following previous withdrawals of Chelsea’s Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Manchester City duo John Stones and Fabian Delph.Southampton midfielder James Ward-Prowse was also called-up to the senior squad on Monday to give Southgate a 23-man squad to choose from for the upcoming European Qualifiers.