Cobham academy graduate Callum Hudson-Odoi grabbed his first goal for Bayer Leverkusen in their clash against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League. The Chelsea youngster is on a season-long loan with the Werkself in hopes of continuing his development with more consistent game time.
The 21-year-old had been tipped for big things, even drawing interest from the likes of Bayern Munich for a potential move a few years ago. However, a mix of injuries and a lack of consistent playing time and position has left him unsure of a place in the Blues' team.
The switch could give him a chance to progress for the future, something new owner Todd Boehly is keen to see. Hudson-Odoi revealed how the American investor messaged him before the switch, telling the BBC: "He said, ‘Make sure to do your thing over there — be confident, be free, be the player that you want to be."
READ MORE: Man City boss Pep Guardiola hands Chelsea clear tactical warning ahead of Graham Potter reunion
While he could benefit from a change of manager at Stamford Bridge, he may already benefit from another change at his loan club in Leverkusen. Former Liverpool, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich midfielder Xabi Alonso has taken charge of the team in his first role as a manager.
While they've hit the ground running, so too has Hudson-Odoi, firing his side into the lead with a composed finish against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League. His return in the summer could prove to be a warning to USMNT international Christian Pulisic, who has been given a fresh start under Graham Potter.
The winger has found a role as a wing-back so far and has been lively, though should Hudson-Odoi return he could prove to be tough competition for that place. That's without mentioning the discontent surrounding Pulisic at Stamford Bridge in recent months, who hasn't had the game time or squad stature he would like.
Plenty of USMNT fans have been frustrated by his lack of importance in the team, while his father has also been public about the situation too. It means this may be the last chance for him to stake a claim at Chelsea before the next set of transfer windows with players returning or joining the club.
READ NEXT:
Why Thiago Silva yelled at Marc Cucurella as Chelsea are handed important Arsenal advantage
Four things learned from Chelsea's win vs FC Salzburg as Graham Potter proves Mason Mount point
Every word Graham Potter said on Chelsea win in Salzburg, Champions League, Pulisic, Havertz
Chelsea news: Todd Boehly to offer Juventus £26m as Graham Potter delivers Kai Havertz verdict
Chelsea news and transfers LIVE: All the latest news, rumours and gossip from Stamford Bridge
