Conor Gallagher has now entered a stage in his career where he is ready to take the next step and continue his rise towards the top of football.
After a hugely impressive loan spell at Crystal Palace last season, in which he scored eight goals and provided five assists, the 22-year-old has been included in Chelsea’s pre-season tour squad for this summer.
The Blues are currently in the United States to play a series of friendly matches ahead of the new campaign, with Thomas Tuchel’s side now well settled across the pond.
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Las Vegas hosted the opening fixture of their pre-season schedule against Mexican outfit Club America, with Gallagher being handed a start in their 2-1 win.
If his performance is anything to go by, then the central midfielder could soon become another one of the club’s successful Cobham academy products.
Tuchel opted to play two different XI’s in each half against Club America, meaning Gallagher played just 45 minutes at the Allegiant Stadium.
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He played alongside Ross Barkley in the heart of the pitch for Chelsea, and put in a solid performance in his first appearance of pre-season.
Gallagher remained calm and composed throughout much of the first half, although he was booked for a foul after losing the ball in the Club America half.
The Epsom-born lad was confident when taking his touches on the ball and was always looking to go forward in the hopes of launching an attack.
So much so that he will leave Vegas rather unlucky in the fact that he should have had an assist, only for Kai Havertz to blaze his through ball over the bar.
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At the start of the second half he was substituted off along with the rest of his teammates, but he can rest and prepare for the next fixture in the knowledge that he performed well for the side.
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His loan at Palace last term was his fourth spell away from the club, having previously spent time at Charlton Athletic, Swansea City and West Brom.
A season at Selhurst Park would see him elevate his game to another level and build upon the Premier League experience he collected during his time at the Baggies.
Gallagher proved to be a crucial asset to Patrick Vieira’s side, with the Eagles finishing 12th in the table and reaching the semi-finals of the FA Cup.
Many believe that he has the minerals to now establish himself as a consistent member of the first team squad at Chelsea, and his performance on Sunday adds heavy support to this claim.
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He must now keep his head down and remain focused on the weeks that lie ahead of him, especially when the new season is just around the corner.
Tuchel will want the strongest squad possible at his disposal, and it’s now down to Gallagher to prove the German that he can contribute to the club’s future successes.
Topics: Conor Gallagher, Chelsea
