Callum Hudson-Odoi has opened up on his decision to leave Chelsea permanently and join Nottingham Forest in the summer.
Hudson-Odoi began his professional career at Stamford Bridge in 2018, but after failing to establish himself as a regular in their lineup, the England international was loaned out to Bayer Leverkusen last season.
He ultimately left Chelsea this summer, completing a permanent move to Nottingham Forest on deadline day.
The player has now disclosed how a phone call from his former England U17 manager Steve Cooper inspired him to re-join the manager at Forest.
Speaking to The Telegraph, Hudson-Odoi said, “Chelsea has been my home for a very long time and knowing it was time to go was emotional.
“It was difficult, we had conversations but I thought it was best if I leave. It was a mutual agreement, but I’d say it was more my decision. Forest is the right place for me to excel in my football, and do more than I probably could at Chelsea.
“I want to be playing as much as possible.
📰🌳 | Callum Hudson-Odoi on leaving Chelsea and joining Nottingham Forest:
“Everyone at Forest has been saying the same since I signed – it feels like I’ve been around for a long time.”
“I’ve been playing from a very young age in Chelsea’s first team but I’m not even 23 until… pic.twitter.com/5nfCtuYkWN
— Everything England 🏴 (@TheEngllshGame) September 18, 2023
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“There were a lot of different places I could have ended up at, but once ‘Coops’ made the call my head was straight here.
“He definitely brought the best out of me with England. The big thing about him is how he understands players, on and off the pitch.
“He’s always making sure that you’re mentally right and comfortable, and free in what you do.”
The 22-year-old winger, who has appeared in only one Carabao Cup game for Cooper’s side since completing his move, is likely to be seen in action on Monday when Forest face newly promoted Burnley.
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