Chelsea, six-time Premier League champions, have struggled to match their stature over the past few seasons, with the last title coming in 2017. The situation has not changed so far this season. The London giants, managed by Mauricio Pochettino, are currently holding the ninth spot in the Premier League standings, having claimed nine wins in 21 games.
Former Chelsea midfielder John Obi-Mikel has now pointed out the Blues’ persistent poor form. While he has slammed the players for not giving their best in every game, the 36-year-old seems quite impressed with Conor Gallagher, who has undoubtedly been one of Chelsea’s standout performers this season.
Gallagher made his debut for Chelsea’s senior team in August 2022, coming in as a substitute in the season opener against Everton away from home. Since then, Gallagher has made 71 appearances for the London-based club. He looks more mature this season, having become a go-to man for manager Mauricio Pochettino. Gallagher was even awarded Chelsea’s captaincy duties in the absence of senior players like Reece James and Ben Chilwell.
Going by his emergence in recent times, the praise Gallagher has received from Obi-Mikel is quite understandable. Speaking on the Obi One podcast, Mikel labelled the youngster as the only Chelsea player, who has been fighting for the club right now.
Highlighting Gallagher’s defensive prowess and ball-holding ability, the Nigerian said, “He (Gallagher) gives his all. He is running, he is tackling. He is giving 110%. Conor is the one player I will single out and say he is fighting for the badge. Apart from Conor, I would say there is nobody else,” as quoted by The Chelsea Chronicle.
Gallagher is one of the top-performing midfielders in this Premier League season. Apart from his attacking prowess, he has done an impressive job with his defensive gameplay as well, recording 1.4 interceptions per game. It is also the highest average among all the Chelsea players including the defenders.
Earlier, a report by the Independent had claimed that Gallagher might shift his base from Stamford Bridge as his current contract with Chelsea is set to expire soon. Chelsea’s city rivals Tottenham are understood to be keen on signing the English midfielder. The outlet reported that Spurs might be ready to pay up to £50 Million for Gallagher but it all depends on Chelsea.
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