Chelsea boss Tuchel admits being ‘tough’ on Hudson-Odoi

Thomas Tuchel believes being “tough” on Callum Hudson-Odoi is the best way to help him fulfil his potential.

Hudson-Odoi continues to try to establish himself as a first-team regular for Chelsea and manager Tuchel has often seemed critical of his performances.

Speaking at a press conference on Monday, Tuchel explained: “I think he needs that. These guys who are so full of quality sometimes hear a little bit too often how good they are. You need to prove it – to show it.

“For the offensive guys it’s easy; just read statistics and deliver assists and goals. This is what he does and what he needs to show.

“This is the highest level in England and in Europe, so we are hopefully not unfair but we are tough on him because it’s not enough with this talent to be (just) a part of the group.

“At the moment we think we have found a way to push him to the limits.”

Tuchel has often used Hudson-Odoi as a wing-back and knows he would rather play in a more attacking role – which he could now get a run in the side in because of injuries to Romelu Lukaku and Timo Werner.

“We are aware when we are maybe a bit unfair and play him too often as a right wing-back where he maybe cannot show his full potential,” Tuchel admitted.