‘It’s what I wanted to hear’: 22-year-old Chelsea player loves what he’s now been told by Tuchel in phone call

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Chelsea’s Conor Gallagher has told BBC Sport he’s looking forward to next season after being assured manager Thomas Tuchel wants him at the club.

The 22-year-old enjoyed a stellar season on loan at Crystal Palace, scoring eight league goals as Patrick Vieira’s side also earned a place in an FA Cup semi-final.

Gallagher was unable to play in the Wembley affair due to the opposition being his parent club, with him now back at Chelsea ahead of next season.

There had been fears that the Englishman may be surplus to requirements when returning to the club, with a number of Premier League clubs monitoring his situation.

However, he has claimed to BBC Sport that Tuchel has offered him assurances that he has the opportunity to fight for a place in the Blues’ first team.

Gallagher happy with Tuchel

He said: “I’ve been a Chelsea fan my whole life, my family have, it’s been a dream to play [for Chelsea] but I want to try and impress, and play as much football as I can and affect the game when I’m on the pitch.

“[Tuchel] said he wants me to be part of the squad and to prove myself in pre-season, so that’s the plan. I’m happy with that and just willing to work as hard as I can to prove to him that I can play for Chelsea.

“It’s what I wanted to hear, it was a nice phone call that we had and it gave me a clear plan of pre-season and where I’m going to be. It was great to hear.”

The Blues would be wise to utilise the new England international this season, with their own midfield situation having an unclear future.

Gallagher has proven he has the goal threat needed to play further up the pitch, while his unmatched work rate and impressive ability to win the ball back can see him play deeper.