Connor Gallagher is on Steven Gerrard’s wishlist this summer. The Cobham graduate has had productive loan spells at West Brom and Crystal Palace in the last two seasons Now it looks like he is ready to make the step up to the first team at Chelsea.
His performances earned him many plaudits. He was an attacking threat in the middle of the park, scoring 8 times for The Eagles. His performances earned him a national team call-up as well. He has gone on to represent England four times now.
After having made inroads into the national squad, Connor Gallagher will now look for a place in the World Cup squad. Thomas Tuchel is eager to get a better look at Gallagher, who is expected to join Chelsea for preseason. Gallagher must earn a role in Chelsea’s plans for the upcoming season, according to Tuchel.
Chelsea and Connor Gallagher
However, game time at Chelsea will be difficult. Gallagher will compete with Ngolo Kante, Jorghinio, Matteo Kovacic and Mason Mount for a spot in the midfield. With so much competition, it may be difficult to get minutes on the pitch. This will be detrimental for Gallagher, who is not a sure pick in Gareth Southgate’s squad. Gallagher will need as many minutes as he can to have a chance of getting on the plane to Qatar.
But Southgate thinks that Gallagher’s return to Chelsea won’t harm his chances at the World Cup. In a recent press conference, he stated that he is aware of Gallagher’s quality, and regardless of his decision, he will be considered for the World Cup Squad.
“So if he goes somewhere else next season or stays at Chelsea, I’m sure he’ll keep developing. He’s got a fabulous mindset, which is the key. He’s a player that will maximise his potential because of his mentality. He looks like one of those who, whatever hurdles are in front of him, he’s going to break them down. I’d be very optimistic about how he would respond to any decision that is made.”
But it is also true that more game time will be beneficial to Gallagher. Not only will he have a stronger case for his inclusion, but also remain match fit. It is still not clear what decision will be made. The next few weeks shall make it more clear.
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As featured on Chelseanews.com
