Believe that Conor Gallagher can be part of our squad and play role with us, admits Thomas Tuchel
Conor Gallagher
|Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel has praised Conor Gallagher and believes that the midfielder can play a part for the Blues next season, once he is back from his loan spell. The 22-year-old has been a sensation with Crystal Palace, contributing to 13 goals in just 32 appearances across all competitions.
After a less than impressive spell on loan at West Bromwich Albion last season, many expected Chelsea to sell Conor Gallagher but the Blues opted to send the midfielder on loan again instead. Despite interest from several clubs, Crystal Palace won the race and the 22-year-old has proven to be a sensation for Patrick Vieira’s side. So far, Gallagher has netted 8 league goals and 3 assists with him contributing to the Eagles’ semi-final run into the FA Cup as well.
It has seen a lot of questions asked about Gallagher’s future especially with Chelsea’s squad jam-packed with world class midfielders. However, despite that, Thomas Tuchel believes that the 22-year-old can be a part of their squad and play a big role for them next season. But the German also added that they will have a conversation with Gallagher over the summer in order to discuss his future and what must be done going forward.
“I believe Conor can be a part of our squad and can play a role with us. But I am not the only one to decide. We need to speak after the season with everybody, speak after the season about what Conor wants, we need to see what the situation is and what role we have for him that he can fight for,” Tuchel told the Guardian.
“There needs to be something to fight, a role and perspective of where you are, where you can be, what you need to achieve. So we have to be very clear with him and he needs to be clear with us. Then we will sort it out. His development is extraordinary and outstanding.
“He is one of the key players at Crystal Palace and made a huge step in his development up front. He was a pleasure to coach in pre-season – he has so much positive energy, energy in general, and such work rate to give that he can have a big influence.”
