Harry Kane says Callum Hudson-Odoi will be keen to make most of England chance

By Matthew Treadwell

England's Callum Hudson-Odoi needs more game time and can reach the highest level, according to captain Harry Kane

Harry Kane believes Callum Hudson-Odoi will be keen to make the most of his opportunity to impress after earning a late call-up to the England squad.

The Chelsea forward - who has yet to start a Premier League game - initially missed out on a place in Gareth Southgate's squad for the European Qualifiers against Czech Republic and Montenegro.

But after being rerouted from the England U21s in Bristol to join up with the full squad at St George's Park, England skipper Kane says a player he believes "has the ability to play at the highest level" will look to stake his claim for permanent inclusion.

"He's come in and wants to take full advantage of his opportunity," said Kane.

"He looked like he was enjoying himself out there today, scoring a few goals in training.

Advertisement

"We are excited to have him. Everyone is fighting for places in this England team and I'm sure he sees this as an opportunity for himself.

"The youth aren't afraid to go and express themselves, especially the attacking players. That's what we want.

Also See:

"As an England team we want that flair and flexibility. So far, so good.

Hudson-Odoi: First England call crazy

Callum Hudson-Odoi says he was "shocked" to find out he had been called up to the England senior squad for the first time.

"It's a great sign in this country that we are creating these kinds of players."

Kane's journey to the top of the game saw him go out on loan from Tottenham to four different clubs.

In contrast, Hudson-Odoi has remained at Stamford Bridge after coming through the ranks, although he was the subject of three transfer bids from Bayern Munich, with the third understood by Sky Sports News to be for £30m.

"Everyone has a different path to the top," added Kane. "Mine was going out on loan and trying to get the experience there.

"Callum has had a taste of cup competitions and a little bit in the Premier League. He will want to play and gain experience at the highest level.

The youth aren't afraid to go and express themselves. That's what we want. It's a great sign in this country that we are creating these kinds of players.
England captain Harry Kane

"We will see how his career progresses over the next year or so, whether he does that where he is now or maybe out on loan with another team. For young players coming through, it is vital that they play.

"Everyone knows he is a fantastic player but in football you go through ups and downs and that's part of the journey.

"I've got no doubt he has the ability to play at the highest level."

Another player in the England squad for the first time is West Ham midfielder Declan Rice, after he opted to switch allegiance from the Republic of Ireland, despite having played three friendlies for them.

"I'm sure it was a tough one for him. He's enjoying the season he has been having so far," Kane said of Rice's decision.

"He took the time with his family and close friends and the decision he made is one he thinks will be best for his future and no one can blame him for that.

"I can tell just by being with him for a couple of days he will give everything for his country."

Play Super 6

Predict 6 correct scores for your chance to win £250K.

Outbrain