Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel has admitted that he is delighted with Conor Gallagher’s progress at Crystal Palace, following the youngster’s fine start to his loan spell at Selhurst Park.
The 21-year-old is currently earning rave reviews for his hugely impressive displays for the Eagles, having joined the club on a season-long loan over the summer, with three goals to his name already in the Premier League this season.
That tally includes a fine finish in the recent 2-0 win over champions Manchester City at the Etihad, with the Englishman having previously netted a brace in the 2-2 draw with West Ham United at the end of August.
The midfielder had previously caught the eye out on-loan at both Charlton Athletic and Swansea City, before making a temporary switch to West Bromwich Albion last season, where he netted twice in 30 league games as the Baggies dropped back into the second tier.
Despite that eventual relegation, Gallagher had done more than enough to put himself on the map while at the Hawthorns, with Tuchel even admitting that the player had come close to being a part of the first-team squad at Stamford Bridge for the new season, before accepting the ‘challenge’ on offer at Palace.
“He is standing out every single matchday so it’s an easy one to follow and credit to him,” said Tuchel at his press conference ahead of Chelsea’s clash with Burnley.
“We had long talks in pre-season and we thought he could stay and fight for his place here.
“But when the talks came up with Patrick Vieira, once he understood the role he could have in the Premier League at the club, he wanted to take the challenge.
“You could wake up him at 4am and he’ll start running and sprinting and winning duels.”
While the German was full of praise for the Blues’ academy product – ahead of Saturday’s clash with Burnley – he insisted that the club has no plans to recall him any time soon.
“You can see that he feels good and has trust from the club and manager but, honestly, right now it’s the beginning of November, he’s an important member of the squad and it’s good where he is and there’s no need to change this,” Tuchel added.
“We are fully aware of it and we are happy that he feels so good and is such a huge part in this club.”
