Conor Gallagher confident new Chelsea role can help Euro 2024 dream with England
Conor Gallagher believes being forced to step up as a leader at Chelsea has boosted his chance of making England’s Euro 2024 squad this summer.
In another rollercoaster season at Stamford Bridge, and despite regular speculation over his future, Gallagher has been among the Blues’ few consistent performers.
Mauricio Pochettino’s men are languishing in the bottom half of the Premier League table but were beaten only on penalties by Liverpool in February's Carabao Cup final and will be back at Wembley for an FA Cup semi-final against Manchester City next month.
Gallagher’s form was rewarded with a start in Saturday night’s showpiece friendly against Brazil and the 24-year-old hopes the way he has ridden out a turbulent campaign at club level will be to his credit when it comes to Gareth Southgate naming his final squad.
“I think gaining an experience wherever in football, if it is club or international, you improve in certain scenarios,” he said. “In tournaments coming up with England, gaining the experience I’ve had in the two cup competitions with Chelsea and getting as far as we have done will definitely help, being in those positions.
“I’ve had to step up and be more of a leader this season at Chelsea which I’ve really enjoyed and I think that’s helped me develop more as a player as well.
“It always helps when you are performing well for your club. It is what Gareth and the others are looking at. I’ll continue to work my hardest for Chelsea and give myself the best opportunity to be in that squad.”
Despite his good form, Gallagher’s Chelsea future remains uncertain heading into the summer. The midfielder is out of contract in at the end of next season and his status as an academy graduate means a sale for “pure profit” would be a significant help as Chelsea battle to comply with financial fair play rules.
However, Gallagher insists the lack of clarity will not affect his football should be receive the Euros call.
“When it comes to it I’ll be focusing on England and the task in hand,” he said.
