Callum’s back in training

CHELSEA duo Callum Hudson-Odoi and Antonio Rudiger are closing in on long-awaited returns. England international Hudson-Odoi, who ruptured an achilles tendon in April, has resumed full first-team training. It is understood that Chelsea manager Frank Lampard will not consider the winger for selection until after the international break, given his long-lay off. The 18-year-old’s imminent return comes as a major boost to Lampard, particularly after Eden Hazard’s exit to Real Madrid earlier this summer. Hudson-Odoi, who has agreed a new long-term contract, is viewed as a key player by Lampard. Hudson-Odoi’s comeback is also good news for England manager Gareth Southgate, who believes he will be an important player at Euro 2020. Southgate would have selected Hudson-Odoi for the UEFA Nations League finals in June had he not suffered the injury. Rudiger is also ready to declare himself fit to return to first-team action ahead of schedule. The Germany international played the full 90 minutes for the Under 23s against Liverpool on Monday night, despite being scheduled to come off after an hour. The central defender is ready to tell Lampard he is available to face Norwich on Saturday. Meanwhile, Davide Zappacosta is set to complete a loan move to Roma, which opens the door for 19-year-old academy graduate Reece James to play a bigger role this season and compete for the right back position with Cesar Azpilicueta.