Conor Gallagher has revealed he had a candid chat with the manager Thomas Tuchel about his future and role in Chelsea and plans to fight for his place on the side.
The midfielder enjoyed an excellent campaign on loan at Crystal Palace he was even called up to Gareth Southgate’s England squad last season, but his future at Stamford Bridge has been questioned.
Chelsea has cashed in on a host of young academy stars in recent years and Gallagher has amassed a host of suitors including EvertonAston Villa and Palace.
But Gallagher is ready to shy away from a transfer and is fully focused on impressing Tuchel.
Asked about their impromptu meeting in a pub in Cobham in April, Gallagher told the Daily Mail: ‘I was trying to hide!
“It was funny because I saw him through the window and whispered to my girlfriend, Mom and Dad, ‘God, it’s Thomas Tuchel’. He sat right next to us on the table so he couldn’t miss me.’
He continued, “I have older brothers who say if you have something you want to say, then do it. Managers aren’t scary – they want to talk to their players and know what your thoughts are.
“I told him what I thought and he said what he thought. I said I think I’m ready to play for Chelsea.’
There was also a phone call with Tuchel encouraging Gallagher to earn his spot: “He said he wants me to be part of the roster and have to prove myself in pre-season, so that’s the plan. I’m happy about that and I’m just willing to work as hard as I can to prove to him that I can play for Chelsea.
“That’s what I wanted to hear, it was a nice call we had and it gave me a clear plan of pre-season and where I’m going to be. It was great to hear.’
While Gallagher’s decision could jeopardize his World Cup place, as Southgate are keen to pick players who play regularly for their club, he believes it is a risk worth taking.
“I feel ready for a step up in my career,” he continued. “If there’s an opportunity to be part of the team at Chelsea, I can’t turn it down.
“I have to believe in myself that I can show the fans and the boss what I can do.”
Gallagher’s decision will be a blow to Palace – who would have jumped at the chance to give the 22-year-old a permanent contract – although the midfielder had some kind words for his old boss Patrick Vieira.
He added: ‘Patrick wasn’t sure about my plans for next season, maybe this will help him find out! I can’t say enough about Patrick. He was perfect for me last season.’
LAKE : How Chelsea coped with four new signings including Raheem Sterling and Kalidou Koulibaly
LAKE : Chelsea make decision on signing Cristiano Ronaldo after talks between Thomas Tuchel and Todd Boehly
For more stories like this, check our sports page†
Follow Metro Sport for the latest news about
facebook† Twitter and Instagram†
