Chelsea's Callum Hudson-Odoi
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‘Now the hard work starts’ – Lampard’s message to Hudson-Odoi following new Chelsea contract

Frank Lampard has told Callum Hudson-Odoi that is now time for the hard work to start after the youngster committed his future to Chelsea on Thursday.

The winger was subject to intense interest from Bayern Munich back in January, who saw a number of bids rejected for the England international following his breakthrough campaign for Chelsea.

After months of speculation about his future, the 18-year-old finally committed his future to the Stamford Bridge outfit yesterday, signing a five-year deal, with reports saying he will earn a whopping £120,000-a-week. Not bad for a player with just four Premier League starts and no goals to his name.

However, with his future now secure, Frank Lampard has told the youngster that the ‘hard work’ starts now, as he edges closer to making his return following a lengthy spell on the sidelines through injury.

“I spoke to Callum in pre-season, I made him aware I want him to be part of the plans,” the Chelsea boss told the media ahead of this weekend’s clash with Liverpool.

“The club have worked hard, so has he and it’s what everyone wanted. It was away from me slightly but I made it clear I wanted him at the club. Now it’s signed it is where the hard work starts. We know the talent he has, I think there is a lot more.

“A lot of the talk was before me, hopefully can look at the other younger players getting their opportunities. You talk about Tammy and Mason, it is a nice thing to see and we can put that to bed and start the work.”

The 18-year-old made nine appearances in the London outfit’s successful Europa League campaign last season, providing four goals and two assists, but missed the final after rupturing his Achilles’ tendon. He also made his England debut in March.

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