Callum Hudson-Odoi's England Redemption: Nottingham Forest Star Eyes Three Lions Return

From Chelsea Prospect to Forest Key Player: Hudson-Odoi's Journey

At 24, Callum Hudson-Odoi is experiencing what he calls "a second beginning" to his football career. The Nottingham Forest winger has become instrumental in his team's push for European qualification while reigniting hopes of an England recall under former Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel.

Premier League Resurgence

• 5 goals and 2 assists this season
• Key figure in Forest's Champions League ambitions
• FA Cup quarter-final showdown with Brighton approaching

International Pedigree

• Youngest ever England player in competitive international (18 years, 135 days)
• Broke Duncan Edwards' 64-year record
• 3 caps with last appearance in 2019

Career-Defining Injury The 2019 Achilles rupture that sidelined him for seven months nearly derailed his promising career:

"I had been playing games week in, week out, got my first call up for England and I step off and boom, everything collapses. At the time, I was just thinking am I going to be the same player I was?" - Hudson-Odoi

Tuchel's Tough Love The current England manager famously substituted Hudson-Odoi after bringing him on during a 2021 Chelsea match:

"We demand 100%. I feel he is not in the right shape to help us." - Thomas Tuchel

Maturity Through Adversity Now at Forest, Hudson-Odoi reflects on his growth:

• Credits defensive work under Tuchel for development
• Embraces wing-back role despite initial reservations
• Focused on self-improvement rather than proving doubters wrong

Forest's Collective Ambition Under Nuno Espirito Santo:

• Changed team mentality and determination
• Pushing for Champions League qualification
• Maintaining positive dressing room atmosphere

"This season everything has just changed – from mentality to determination. We know we have the ability to do this."

England Future Despite missing the latest squad, Hudson-Odoi remains hopeful:

• Acknowledges need to prove himself again
• Focused on enjoying his football
• Prepared for any national team opportunity

With Nottingham Forest competing on multiple fronts and Hudson-Odoi rediscovering his best form, the stage is set for an exciting conclusion to what could become the winger's career-defining season.