England set to start Sancho and play Hudson-Odoi in Euro 2020 qualifying opener against Czech Republic
Marcus Rashford's withdrawal from the squad through injury has opened the door for the Borussia Dortmund star
GARETH SOUTHGATE says Jadon Sancho and Callum Hudson-Odoi are “on a par” — as he unleashes his Young Lions tonight.
The England boss looks set to give Borussia Dortmund star Sancho, 18, a first competitive start against the Czech Republic at a sold-out Wembley.
And with Marcus Rashford injured, he has no fears in handing a debut to Chelsea’s Hudson-Odoi, also 18. Southgate said: “Callum’s fitted in brilliantly and I won’t hesitate to start either — they’re ready.
“Jadon’s profile is much higher because of his opportunity. But, in terms of quality, right the way through their careers it has been on a par.
“Callum has people like Eden Hazard ahead of him but he’ll be absolutely fine, no doubt.
“Jadon has had more big-match experience at this point and has been with us in the senior team for a bit longer. We knew from a couple of days ago Marcus wouldn’t be ready, so it’s a great chance for the others.
“They’ve been exceptional in training — they look like they’ve been with us forever.
“So we’re really looking forward to seeing the team play.”
They’ve been exceptional in training
Gareth Southgate
Sancho’s cheeky ‘Panenka’ spot-kick past Jack Butland in training on Tuesday proved he is bursting with confidence.
And Southgate added: “We certainly don’t want to knock that out of creative players.
“Sometimes as a coach you can focus on moulding players into the way you want them to play — then they lose the thing that makes them special. It’s important we don’t do that, with the creative players especially.
“So you want them to feel comfortable enough to do that in a senior environment.
“Both played in small-sided games this morning, encouraging the older ones and feeling like they’re part of the group.
“These boys have huge confidence and just do what they see.”
Southgate has been hit with a string of injuries and Rashford has returned to Manchester United with an ankle problem.
It also rules him out of Monday’s Euro qualifier out in Montenegro.
Harry Maguire and Michael Keane are set to start in central defence tonight.