Gallagher enhances his Chelsea chances with decisive England display
Robin Bairner
- 26 Mar 2022 19:31 GMT
- 3 min read
Conor Gallagher has caught the eye in a breakout season at Crystal Palace on loan from Chelsea and impressed on Saturday when given his first England start against Switzerland.
Gallagher was the Three Lions’ standout player for the first hour as they picked up a 2-1 victory at Wembley.
Indeed, it was the Chelsea youngster who laid on Luke Shaw’s equaliser with a square pass that was cleverly dummied by Blues counterpart Mason Mount before being lashed home from the edge of the box. It was his first decisive contribution for his nation.
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Gallagher, though, made several eye-catching contributions to a youthful England side. He showcased the type of dynamic midfield play that has made him such a hit at Selhurst Park and for the hour that he was on the field slotted in more seamlessly than those other rookies deployed by Gareth Southgate.
There was no hint he was overawed by the sense of responsibility he had been given and was fearless when in possession.
Of course, he had the advantage of having previously featured for his country, though that was the easiest possible introduction to the international game as he arrived on the field against San Marino at half-time during a 10-0 away victory.
Switzerland might have been a friendly match, but the standard of opposition was infinitely higher and again marked a step up in class. It was one that he made easily.
Gallagher’s Chelsea future remains unclear
Despite Gallagher’s fine showings this season, there remains some doubts over his future at Chelsea.
The uncertain situation of the club means that inevitably there is some measure of uncertainty for everyone on their books, but Gallagher is reportedly eager for regular football again next season and there is no guarantee that he will be able to get it at Stamford Bridge.
Gallagher, though, as stood up well to every challenge that has been placed in his way to date, and that can only enhance his chances of making the grade at Chelsea.
