Hudson-Odoi scores great goal, Reece James collects assist as Chelsea U23 beat Southampton 2-0

Academy superstar duo Callum Hudson-Odoi and Reece James continued to work their way towards full fitness with 75 minutes of action for Chelsea U23 today, scoring one and setting up another in the 2-0 away win at Southampton. The win keeps the undefeated Blues two points clear at the top of the PL2 table after six games played.

Development Squad head coach Andy Myers was able to field a very strong side today, with the headlining duo joined by the likes of Billy Gilmour in midfield, Marc Guehi at center back, and Ian Maatsen at left back (and later central midfield).

The match itself was not televised, but @chelseayouth’s running commentary and highlights from the home side’s social media reveal a less than flowing affair, one where Chelsea’s individual quality eventually paid second-half dividends.

After a scoreless opening 45, Callum Hudson-Odoi took matters into his own hands, and got Chelsea on the board inside of fifteen minutes in the second frame. The pass from Billy Gilmour was almost as exquisite as the finish!

The tie was put to bed not much later with a slightly more scrappy effort, but one where Reece James played a key role with the delicate little chip-cross from the right side, after the initial corner went a bit long. Clinton Mola finished at the far post.

Hudson-Odoi and James were both removed after 75 minutes. Next time they play will hopefully be for Chelsea, on Wednesday again Grimsby Town in the League Cup third round match at Stamford Bridge.