Conor Gallagher has impressed on loan at Charlton in the Championship this season. He has now begun to attract the interest of Premier League clubs, with Burnley looking at making a move for the young English man.
His current loan deal with Charlton runs until the end of the season. However, he has impressed so much that he could make a difference to the Chelsea first team. Depending on the fitness of other midfield options, Gallagher could be a useful understudy as fixture congestion intensifies.
He has made 24 appearances for Charlton this season, scoring six goals in the process. He is a deep-lying playmaker that is tough in the tackle and comfortable in possession. The goal threat he poses through clever movement and impressive long-distance shooting ability make him a well-rounded midfield option.
Gallagher has also impressed when playing for the England U-21’s this season. He has been the standout Chelsea loan star this season and could come back to Stamford Bridge in January.
The only question surrounding his return is the sheer amount of midfield options already at the club. Jorginho, Mason Mount, N’Golo Kante, and Mateo Kovacic are all fighting for the midfield spots. That is before considering the soon to be returning Ruben Loftus-Cheek.
It may be best for everyone involved if Gallagher sees the season out with Charlton, and gets a full season of first-team football under his belt. Lampard can then run the rule over him in pre-season, and assess whether he will be part of next season’s squad.
Recalling him in January could be a rash decision, and might stunt his development in what is looking like a breakout season.
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