28 December 2023 , 08:20
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Conor Gallagher was told by Mauricio Pochettino to surrender penalty duties if he wasn't feeling confident enough in Chelsea's win over Crystal Palace.
That is exactly what the midfielder did as the club's usual spot kicker taker gave it up and allowed Noni Madueke to convert late on to seal the three points. Gallagher's future at Stamford Bridge has been debated in recent weeks with the player into the final 18 months of his deal.
Chelsea have also spent big to land the likes of Enzo Fernandez, Romeo Lavia and Moises Caicedo in the past year, increasing the competition in the middle of the park. Pochettino has continued to pick Gallagher in midfield though and admits he was "so happy" to see him hand Madueke an opportunity.
The Blues boss told BBC Match of the Day on the penalty situation: "It was Conor and I said to him: 'It's you but if you're not confident enough give it Noni'. I am so glad and so happy. He came from the bench and showed this hunger and confidence."
Gallagher is one of a number of squad members who have come through the academy. The midfielder impressed in numerous loan spells away before being given his opportunity. So far this term he's played in every league game but one, which he missed through suspension, often captaining the side.
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Pochettino confessed recently that he will have no say in whether Gallagher stays or goes but believes he should be retained. “That is between the club and the player," he said. "I don’t need to talk too much because it is not my decision. He is in the starting eleven in nearly all the games and is one of the captains. For me, he is the type of player that the club needs to have.”
Conor Gallagher gave up a penalty to allow Noni Madueke to score Chelsea's winner (Getty Images)It is understood that no talks have yet begun between Gallagher and the west London outfit. Last term their failure to nail Mason Mount down to a long-term deal saw him opt for pastures new in the summer and Pochettino clearly doesn't want a repeat.
“He’s important because of his Chelsea values," said the Argentine. "He came from the academy and knows the identity of the club and he is very committed. You can see on the pitch how he runs, plays, and fights. He gives everything and he is a really important player. All coaching staff want this type of player in their team.”