Frank Lampard has revealed that Callum Hudson-Odoi is 'pure talent' and that he sees him as an important player in his Chelsea plans. 

The 18-year-old is currently recovering from an Achilles injury he suffered near the end of last season, after a wonderful campaign with the senior team.

His form and obvious talent saw Bayern Munich submit a number of rejected bids, with Chelsea making it clear that the youngster was not for sale.

"I have seen Callum come through and he is a fantastic talent," Lampard said as quoted by the club's website.

"We all know that and I will speak to him and I want him to stay. I know the club want him to stay and for me, he is going to be central for us on the pitch and that is the opportunity that is really in front of him now, certainly from where I am sitting. So that is something I will speak to him about and I hope he stays," he added.

Lampard took over reigns at Chelsea last week, replacing the departing Maurizio Sarri, who left to join Juventus a few weeks ago.

The team is currently in Ireland for the preseason, with Odoi and a few other stars including Antonio Rudiger and Reuben Loftus-Cheek missing as they nurse injuries.

-futaa