Robbie Savage spotted Chelsea boss Graham Potter clapping Conor Gallagher for a passage of play last night in the victory against Red Bull Salzburg.
The Blues are through to the Champions League knockouts as group winners after winning 2-1 away to Salzburg.
It was a European contest that Chelsea played some really eye-catching stuff in, which hopefully they can take moving forward into their next few games before the World Cup.
Mateo Kovacic produced a “sensational” finish on his weaker left foot to score the opener. Also, Kai Havertz’s winning goal was a rocket into the top corner.
Potter clapping Gallagher
Savage, who was on co-commentary for BT Sport’s coverage, noticed Potter on the touchline applauding Chelsea’s Gallagher in the 70th minute.
The 22-year-old midfielder showed a real calmness in possession to help the Blues clear from a Salzburg corner. He skipped past one opponent before firing a great pass down the line into the opposition’s half.
“That’s brilliant from Gallagher. He’s getting a round of applause from his manager. He’s been exceptional in that position, both in the final third and defensively as well,” Savage told BT Sport 2.
Gallagher was an unused substitute at the weekend in the league draw against Manchester United, so he was fresh going into midweek away to Salzburg.
The box-to-box midfielder certainly didn’t disappoint last night during what was his first ever Champions League start.
He was full of work rate and endeavour like always, but did produce some moments of quality as well.
The competition for places in Chelsea’s midfield is extremely high, but Gallagher proved against Salzburg he’s right in the mix.
Potter continues with his rotation policy during the hectic fixture schedule, so it’s great to see different individuals put their hand up at different times.
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