Hudson-Odoi, Brewster give indication of things to come
MUMBAI: It is too early to predict the stars of the U-17 World Cup but if England’ s Call um Hudson-Odoi and Rhian Brewster display the same skills in the main tournament as they did in the practice game against New Zealand on Sunday, they will give their opponents a tough time. Hudson-Odoi is an attacking midfielder, plays on the left, likes to cut back into the box and is good with both feet.
Brewster, who scored twice to give England a 3-2 win, can play not only down the centre as atraditional striker but also has the pace to operate from wide attacking positions.
With J ad on Sancho, the Player of the Tournament at the under -17 European Championship, yet to join the squad, pressure will be on Hudson-O do ia nd Brewster to provide the firepower upfront. Both were England’s joint-second highest scorers at the U-17 Euro behind Sancho. When quizzed about Sancho, England coach Steve Cooper said they are working closely with Borussia Dortmund to resolve the situation.
While Hudson-Odoi dominated the first half before being substituted, Brewster turned on the style when he came in after the break. Hudson-Odoi, who signed a three-year deal with Chelsea in July this year, was the one to put England on the offensive after they had gone a goal down. Oliver Whyte’s strike had given New Zealand the lead.
Sticking to the left wing, Hudson- Odoipeppe red the New Zealand box with some delightful passes but there was no one present to put those away. England equalised through defender Marc Guehi soon after as New Zealand failed to clear from a corner.
When England kick off their group proceedings in Kolkata, Hudson-Odoi and Brewster will be the first names on their teamsheet.
In the second half, Brewster was all over New Zealand, allowing their defenders no time to catch their breath. For his first, he placed himself between New Zealand centre-back and timed his run to convert a beautiful pass from Manchester City’s Phil Foden.
A few minutes later, he again rose above New Zealand defence to head home Nya Kirby’s cross.
The 17-year-old has risen up the ranks at Liverpool after switching from Chelsea a couple of years ago. He has also caught the attention of Reds’ manager Juergen Klopp.
Had both started together, England would have finished with a much better scoreline what they finally got.