Former Chelsea winger Pat Nevin admitted that Conor Gallagher had let him down twice already this term through no real fault of his own.
Speaking to Off the Ball, Nevin expressed his disappointment towards the two games he has watched Gallagher play live in the last few months.
There have been very few negative moments of the 21-year-old during his loan spell with Crystal Palace.
Six goals and three assists in 16 appearances make up a fine start to life in the southeast of London.
His latest sterling showing – a brace against Everton on Sunday – further highlighted the England international’s Premier League quality.
A smart finish from inside the area was followed by an even smarter finish from outside the area.
With energy to burn and an eye for goal, the midfielder really is becoming the full, golden-haired package.
Caught in the act, Conor
Yet, players cannot have everything go their own way, despite what some might suggest.
Gallagher has experienced off days, like every professional.
Unfortunately, Nevin was there in the flesh to witness them.
“I was at the Palace Man United game and to be honest, he was rubbish,” he said.
“I’ve watched him now play too very poor games. They weren’t just average; they were quite poor.
“Both times for the same reason; they put him as a sitting midfielder because he’s got energy and they want him to close down.
“You stick him a little further forward and he’s fantastic.”
Sadly for Gallagher, filling the attacking areas is not really an issue for Chelsea.
“I can’t imagine they (Chelsea) wouldn’t bring him back because of what he’s delivering right now,” continued Nevin.
“The only downside is the similarities with Mason Mount. Mount is back on a real good stream of games right now.
“The problem with Gallagher is, they are probably all right there, they are okay in that position.”
Winners and losers
What Thomas Tuchel could do with is some extra bodies in central midfield, as N’Golo Kante, Jorginho and Mateo Kovacic feel the strain of an intense campaign.
The Blues will surely not want to sacrifice Gallagher’s forward intent for the sake of saving a few tired legs.
This does not spell entirely good news for the Cobham graduate, who must envisage a return to Stamford Bridge before too long.
However, Palace might just be rubbing their hands at the thought of having a clean sweep at signing the young star permanently.
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