Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher talked about his first Champions League start against RB Salzburg
Speaking to the media after the game (h/t BBC), Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher talked about his first-ever Champions League start which ended in the Blues beating RB Salzburg 2-1.
Splendid goals from Mateo Kovacic and Kai Havertz in either half secured the win for Graham Potter’s men that not only guarantees them a ticket in the next round, but they go in as group toppers after AC Milan beat Dinamo Zagreb.
After making appearances off the bench in this competition, Gallagher made his first start in Salzburg and played well in an important victory. It was a good sign for those associated with the Blues considering many pin their hopes on Gallagher filling the potential that N’Golo Kante and Jorginho may leave if and when they eventually leave the club.
Moreover, he hasn’t had the best start to his career at Chelsea after returning from a loan spell at Crystal Palace this summer. However, things seem to be going good for him in recent weeks.
Here’s what the midfielder said regarding his proud moment and that Kovacic goal (h/t BBC):
“It’s a really proud moment, I wanted to give a good performance and for us to get the win. Hopefully I can push on after this. Every game is very important and we’ve got a lot of them so everyone needs to be ready. Hopefully we can carry on in the form we’re in.”
“It was a great finish [Kovacic goal], I couldn’t believe it to be honest! To get that first goal was important and helped us out and gave us confidence in the game.”
What this result has done is made sure that Chelsea won’t be facing Champions League group toppers in the last-16 stage, which will be a very good thing. Although there will be some fantastic second-placed teams as well.
Moreover, Potter can now rest all of his key players for the next group game against Dinamo Zagreb at Stamford Bridge next week. It will allow him to focus on the three remaining league games before the World Cup.
This win also extends the Blues’ unbeaten run to nine since the new manager took charge. Despite Kepa Arrizabalaga flapping at a few crosses in the second half, it was another solid showing from the goalkeeper.
Gallagher, on the other hand, must be proud of a solid display from start to finish. He provided running, energy, good ball retention and speed to cover up the spaces without possession.
More Chelsea News:
- Transfer News: Kevin Campbell tips Chelsea to sign Cristiano Ronaldo on loan in January
- Chelsea receive possible encouragement from Frenkie de Jong over a January move
- Report: Chelsea winger Christian Pulisic will push for January exit
Up next for Chelsea is a return to Brighton and Hove Albion for Potter for the first time since taking over the new job. Expect an emotional atmosphere there, and Brighton are a good team. So, it would not be an easy game.