Chelsea urged to make swift decision over return of Palace star as ‘serious takers’ lurk

Former Chelsea coach Jody Morris has urged Thomas Tuchel to give Conor Gallagher regular opportunities in the first team next season or risk losing him to a rival club.

Gallagher is enjoying a fantastic campaign on loan at Crystal Palace, where he is working under legendary midfielder Patrick Vieira. The starlet is on eight goals and five assists from 32 matches so far.

That includes a goal and assist during Palace’s surprise victory over Manchester City in October. He also bagged a brace as the Eagles beat Everton 3-1 in December.

Gallagher’s impressive performances have given him his first taste of senior England action. He has made three appearances for the Three Lions, with two of those coming in the recent international break.

Reports have hinted at a bid from Crystal Palace to make his transfer permanent. However, it would take a huge sum to prize him away from Stamford Bridge for good.

Instead, the central midfielder is likely to return to Chelsea ahead of next season. It will then be down to Tuchel to decide if he can become a regular starter.

Morris, who was Frank Lampard’s assistant at Chelsea, has given his verdict on Gallagher’s future.

He wants the 22-year-old to be given a chance to shine in west London, to keep ‘serious takers’ at bay.

“Conor Gallagher is certainly up there as far as Young Player of the Season is concerned,” Morris said (via CaughtOffside).

“His performances – not only this season at Crystal Palace, but also at Swansea and West Brom – have been unbelievable.

“He’s been a top-drawer performer for nearly three years, and he’s taken to the Premier League like it’s nothing.

“The energy that he gives, the fact that he’s chipping in with goals, and how at home he looks on an international stage…