Conor Gallagher has said he is ready to play a big role for Chelsea this season after Thomas Tuchel’s decision to keep him at the club.
Gallagher spent last season on loan at Crystal Palace and was very impressive at the Eagles, whilst simultaneously gaining even more valuable Premier League experience.
He scored eight goals and provided five assists in all competitions at Selhurst Park, and his performances suggested he may be ready to compete for a spot in Tuchel’s squad at Chelsea.
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Since his return to the club, the 22-year-old has featured in all of their pre-season fixtures.
The midfielder started against Club America and Arsenal, and came off the bench against Charlotte FC, although he did miss a penalty in the shootout defeat.
Now, Gallagher is ready for the start of the new Premier League season, and he is set to remain at Chelsea rather than going out on loan for what would be the fifth time.
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Speaking to Sky Sports, the central midfielder revealed he is hoping to play a key role in the squad in the forthcoming campaign.
"I feel like I was ready to make the step up to Chelsea this season.
“The boss said that he wants me around and he thinks I'm good enough.
“Hopefully I can play a big part this season."
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His performance against Club America has been a particular highlight for the Blues this summer, as Gallagher stepped up to the challenge and looked comfortable on the ball against their Mexican opponents.
Tuchel was full of praise for him after the win when he said: “Conor trains at a really high level, and you can clearly see it was the right decision to let him go on loan.
“He made a huge step in his development at Crystal Palace and became an England player.
"We can see this clearly in training. It was a very good start and a good match for him.
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"Now, for him, it's important he gets used to our principles of the game, to understand when to move and when not to move, and his work rate is outstanding, and he has such a big heart.
“He can be a big asset for us."
Gallagher’s first loan spell saw him feature for Charlton Athletic in the 2019/20 campaign, before he made the switch to Swansea City in January of the same season.
He would then go on to play for West Brom, before shining for Palace last term.
Topics: Conor Gallagher, Chelsea, Thomas Tuchel
Robert Calcutt