Frank Lampard has hailed Callum Hudson-Odoi for making a big impact on his return but says the Chelsea youngster can still improve off the ball.
Hudson-Odoi, back in the side after recovering from a ruptured Achilles tendon, was outstanding in the Blues’ 1-0 win at home to Newcastle on Saturday.
The England international is exciting to watch going forward but boss Lampard is keen to work on other aspects of his game.
Speaking at a press conference, Lampard said: “He was really good in terms of his product, taking people on, he looked sharp – getting at people. He was a big threat and I’m pleased with that.
“It was great to see and great for the fans to see. Callum needs to carry on doing that.
“There’s the other side of the game – the side of him off the ball. He knows he can get better at that and he will do.”
Hudson-Odoi was involved in the build up to Marcos Alonso’s winning goal against the Magpies.
So too was Christian Pulisic, who has struggled to make an impact since arriving from Borussia Dortmund but did impress on Saturday after coming on as a substitute.
“I’m really pleased for him. He’s a hot topic because of his price tag and his status with his national team and world status,” Lampard said.
“I think everyone has got a little bit carried away with the short term – the long term is he’s come here, has just turned 21, and to see him play like he did today, there’s a lot more to come.
“You can see his balance and his awareness – you can see how he can play and of course the improvement with all the young players.
“I’m delighted for him, mentally, because he’ll feel good after that – he should do because he was a big part of us winning that game.”