Chelsea assistant manager, Gianfranco Zola has dismissed suggestions in some quarters that want out youngster, Callum Hudson-Odoi, is being denied better playing time by The Blues’ boss, Maurizio Sarri.
Bayern Munich have made relentless efforts to sign the 18 year old. And are expected renew their firm bid for the teenager at the end of this season.
Zola fielded questions concerning Hudson-Odoi’s first team status at Chelsea during a pre-match press conference on Friday ahead of their Monday’s FA Cup clash with Manchester United at the Stamford Bridge.
Sarri didn’t include Hudson-Odoi in his matchday squad for Premier League their game against Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium last weekend which they lost horrendously 6-0.
He was subbed on to play only six minutes in Chelsea’s 2-1 away win against Malmo in the Europa League on Thursday.
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“Sorry but I disagree. He is always on the edge of the team,” Zola said when asked about Hudson-Odoi’s limited playing time.
“As soon as there is an opportunity he plays – sometimes from the beginning, sometimes he comes on like at Malmo.
“I think the manger is giving him plenty of reasons to make him feel involved and wanted
“There are not many 18-year-olds in Europe playing for top clubs who are playing as much. There might be one.
“He is a player that we appreciate and we believe has grown up and has a bright future at this club. Maurizio likes him. The whole coaching group likes him
“You need to understand he is surrounded by top players and you have to work hard to be better than them.
“We want to make sure that he plays and keeps improving. He can still do better than he’s doing.”
Zola would also speak about Gonzalo Higuain who is still battling to convince OId Trafford faithful that he is a worthy acquisition despite bagging a brace in their Premier League game win against Huddersfield Town.
“He’s settling well. The first game he was okay. It’s four games I think he’s played because there was also a cup game (Vs Sheffield Wednesday). He’s progressing very well,” Zola said
“You can see he’s a player that, when it comes to scoring goals, is very sharp. His physical condition is improving day by day and adapting to the rhythm of the Premier League will help him to be sharper
“He’s in a good place and can be better.”
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