Callum Hudson-Odoi was so thrilled to make his debut in England’s 5-0 thrashing of Czech Republic that the Chelsea starlet didn’t believe it was real.
The 18-year-old became England’s youngest current international when he was introduced by Gareth Southgate with 20 minutes to play, despite never have made a Premier League start for Chelsea.
The winger had an immediate impact in the rout when his shot was inadvertently turned into the net on the rebound by Czech defender Tomas Kalas.
Speaking to Chelsea’s official website after the game, Hudson-Odoi said: “I’m definitely delighted. I want to thank everybody for helping me get here, and to get the opportunity to play is a massive feeling in front of the home crowd as well,” Hudson-Odoi said.
“I couldn’t believe it [when I was told to get ready]. I didn’t think it was real. I was looking around the crowd and everybody looked happy – I couldn’t believe it.
“I didn’t know what to do, but I was delighted, and hopefully there’ll be many more to come.”
Hudson-Odoi joined Declan Rice in making his debut, while good friend Jadon Sancho made his first full start for England – making it the first time the country had fielded two 18-year-old’s in 138 years – setting up Raheem Sterling’s opening goal.
England face a potentially sterner test away at Montenegro on Monday, however, Hudson-Odoi could well be in line for a second appearance off the bench.
