Graham Potter offers explanation on why Conor Gallagher was subbed prematurely against Brentford
Speaking to the media after the game (h/t Football.London), Chelsea manager Graham Potter explains why Conor Gallagher was subbed off prematurely against Brentford.
The midfielder had to go off in the 15th minute of the game and was replaced by Mateo Kovacic. The Blues played well but were held to a goalless draw at the Gtech Community Stadium.
Talking about Gallager’s situation, Potter erased any fears of an injury, saying that the player fell ill and was not feeling good to continue. He hasn’t spoken to the doctors yet.
Here’s what the Chelsea manager exactly said regarding the situation (h/t Football.London):
“I haven’t spoken to the doctors but he just felt ill. He thought he was going to be sick so hopefully it’s just a 24 hour thing and he will be okay.”
The Blues again had to thank their goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga for making fine saves to keep the clean sheet. On the other end, they had chances to score, but Brentford stopper David Raya was in good form too.
Keeping Potter’s quote on Gallagher in mind, it seems like the 22-year-old will be back available soon, maybe even before the next game against Manchester United on Saturday.
Despite the two dropped points against tough opposition, Chelsea remain fourth in the table, seven points behind league leaders Arsenal. Saturday will offer Potter’s men a chance to expand the gap between them and fifth-placed United, who are just one point behind them after a resounding win over Tottenham Hotspur.
The manager benched Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Thiago Silva for this game, quite evidently keeping them fresh for the weekend. Ben Chilwell was not even in the matchday squad due to workload management. We should see him in action against the Red Devils too.
More Chelsea News:
- Brighton star and Chelsea transfer target Leandro Trossard put future talks on hold till after the World Cup
- Chelsea boss Graham Potter has identified Jonathan David as an ideal striker
- Jorginho seeks pay rise after Chelsea made contract offer to the midfielder.
With injuries to N’Golo Kante, Reece James and Wesley Fofana, Chelsea would be hoping that Gallagher is available soon. They would need as many bodies available as possible for this intense period of games before the World Cup.