MARTIN KEOWN: Children must benefit from Chelsea's transfer ban

The announced transfer ban on Friday is the best thing that can happen to any young player in Chelsea for 20 years.

For too long, this club did not want to use the great talent it produces.

When I look at Callum Hudson-Odoi, I do not see just a promising youngster. He has what it takes to be like Willian or Eden Hazard.

Yet, I never have the impression that he is convinced that his future is at Stamford Bridge.

Compare it with Phil Foden in Manchester City. Both players are 18 and have not started a league game yet, but with Foden, you feel that City has a way forward for him.

His challenge is to prove that he is ready to step in when David Silva retires. What is the path of Hudson-Odoi?

His club stores players, 41 on loan. Tomas Kalas, now 25 in Bristol City, is on his sixth loan in nine years.

Does Chelsea need nine years to determine if it's good enough? The club being willing to appeal the ban, the temptation will be great to buy before the entry into force.

But why not take the opportunity to make the most of their young stars? Hudson-Odoi may be their future – if only Chelsea makes him feel that he is part of it.