Hudson-Odoi decision vindicated by Tuchel during Chelsea's Leicester thrashing

Callum Hudson-Odoi continues to star for Chelsea having snubbed England to remain focused on his club efforts.

The Blues academy graduate has been capped by Gareth Southgate in the senior side whilst also representing the U21s.

But when the latter came calling recently Hudson-Odoi politely declined, but the decision appears to be positively manifesting itself on the pitch.

The 21-year-old, who has long been tipped for big things, is enjoying a consistent run of games under Thomas Tuchel.

Initially it looked as if Hudson-Odoi may be used as a wing-back, but he is now playing as part of the front three.

He was denied a goal by the flag as the Blues comprehensively saw off Leicester City at the King Power Stadium.

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Tuchel was recently quizzed on Hudson-Odoi's England shun but spoke of the positives of keeping him in and around the club.

He said: "If Callum is here, we have full control of what he's doing. It's a good thing when we are in charge.

"He is clearly on the right way - you can see it in the matches and how effective he is. I feel he is very focused. He waited a long time for these chances and now they arrived."

Joe Cole, a former Blue who works with the club's youth sides, won 56 caps for England, playing at the World Cup for the Three Lions.

He believes that the international decision must rest with Hudson-Odoi, who is also eligible for Ghana, but so far the decision is being justified by his club minutes.

Cole said on BT Sport : "I think from Callum's perspective he's made the decision to concentrate on Chelsea and made the decision to help his career. Representing is England is important.

"But, I understand and we shouldn't buy into headlines. He's been made right and starts. He's got be better than (Christian) Pulisic.

"It comes from the heart. If he wants to go and play for England, go and do it."

Rio Ferdinand added: "I think we should respect his decision. He's got thin long-term and think about his career. They've got a brilliant manager and want to win titles. He wants to be a part of that."

Hudson-Odoi played the 90 minutes against Leicester but Pulisic and Hakim Ziyech both appeared from the bench, with the former scoring.

They are among the players the Chelsea academy graduate will have to hold off if he is to remain a regular at Stamford Bridge.