Conor Gallagher sends strong message to Graham Potter over Chelsea role after Crystal Palace winner

Chelsea match-winner Conor Gallagher has sent a message to Graham Potter after his late goal against Crystal Palace.

The midfielder was named on the bench in Potter's first Premier League match but proved to be vital in the victory.

Odsonne Edouard opened the scoring for the hosts, netting from a Jordan Ayew cross to give Chelsea a huge disadvantage.

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The Blues had it all to do and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang netted on his return to the Premier League to make it 1-1 before half-time.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang scores to make the score 1-1 during the Premier League match between Crystal Palace and Chelsea. (Alamy)

The hosts thought that Thiago Silva should have seen red for a handball before he registered the assist for the equaliser.

It looked to be all over with the points shared before Gallagher netted a fantastic goal, striking the ball from outside the box to give Chelsea all three points at Selhurst Park, the ground he played the majority of his football at last season.

Player Ratings: Crystal Palace 1-2 Chelsea | Premier League

Being deployed further forward than under previous boss Thomas Tuchel, Gallagher thrived and managed to make his impact as he netted the winner.

Speaking after the match, Gallagher sent a strong message to Potter regarding his game time and what he can do at Chelsea.

When asked about his goal, Gallagher said: "It's a very special moment to come on and get the winner and my first goal for Chelsea.

"It was written in the stars. Unfortunately it came against Palace but I'm just buzzing to get my first goal."

He continued to thank the Eagles and their supporters for their reception before continuing to discuss what he can add for Chelsea this season, sending a message to the head coach.

"Everyone knows how much I loved it here (at Palace) and I thank the whole club and the fans - even today with the reception they gave me," he continued.

Chelsea's Conor Gallagher shoots and scores the winning goal during the Premier League match against Crystal Palace. (Alamy)

"Hopefully I can build a bit of confidence with the goal and push on.

"I want to work as hard as I can for him (Potter) and be available wherever he needs me, whether starting or coming off the bench.

"Obviously I want to start and I need to show him I'm good enough."

Chelsea face AC Milan in midweek before taking on Wolves in the next Premier League match, with Gallagher keen to earn his way into the starting XI.