Callum Hudson Odoi reveals how a phone call helped him to make up his mind

Callum Hudson Odoi speaks on eventually leaving Chelsea permanently to join Nottingham Forest this summer.

The forward began his professional career at Stamford Bridge in 2018 but after failing to become a centrepiece in their lineup, the youngster was sent out on loan to Bayern Leverkusen last season. He finally cut ties with the Blues by opting for a permanent move to Nottingham Forest on the deadline day this year. 

The player has now disclosed how a simple phone call from his former Under 17 coach Steve Cooper tempted him to reunite the Forest manager. 

Hudson Odoi revealed this in a Telegraph interview- “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."

He added,"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."

When asked about what Cooper told him over the call, Odoi said, “Don’t be boring! He’s been saying it to me for as long as I can remember. ‘Take risks, don’t let anything hold you back and be yourself. Create problems every time you’re on the ball.’ You want to have that freedom to do your stuff, whether it’s scoring or creating goals for the team. That’s what I want, to excite the crowd."

The exciting winger, who has made only once appearance for Cooper’s side since completing his move, is probably to be seen in action on Monday when Forest take the field against a freshly promoted Burnley.