Callum Hudson-Odoi admits England Under-21 were happy “to prove a point” after the Chelsea winger hit a brace to help down Austria 5-1 at Stadium MK on Tuesday.
Hudson-Odoi, 18, scored twice in the Euro 2021 qualifier, netting a fine volley and curling in his second after an impressive solo run, while Arsenal’s Eddie Nketiah, currently on loan at Leeds, took home the match ball after securing a hat-trick.
“We worked really hard throughout the camp and today we came out to prove a point and show what we can do,” Hudson-Odoi said.
“We came out with the right mentality and I am happy with myself.
“I had the momentum for the second goal. As soon as I got [the ball] I had an eye for the goal and the runners opened up the gaps.
“I took the shot early and am happy it went in.”
Nketiah added that it was a “big three points” for the England U-21s, whose victory saw them maintain their flawless record in qualifying ahead of next summer’s Euros.
“Austria were top and we needed to come here and put in a good performance,” the 20-year-old said. “The boys were excellent.”
Nketiah had a chance to score his fourth goal of the evening late on, but missed from the penalty spot.
“I am on penalty duty, I usually put them away, but the goalkeeper made a good save,” he said.
“I am delighted with the hat-trick and get to keep the match ball. Hopefully there will be more to come for England.”
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