Chelsea head coach Thomas Tuchel has revealed that he has been 'in love' with Conor Gallagher ever since he started working with him in the summer.
Having been loaned out to Crystal Palace for the season, Gallagher has emerged as one of the standout players in the Premier League, contributing four goals and two assists from 10 appearances.
The 21-year-old's performances this campaign have already led to a call-up to the England squad, the Blues academy graduate making his debut against San Marino earlier this week.
Days after Gareth Southgate spoke highly of Gallagher, Tuchel has heaped further praise on the player, claiming that it is impossible not to have affection for him.
Speaking to reporters at a press conference, Tuchel said: "I'm not surprised that national team coach loves him. I loved him from day one. There cannot be a coach who does not love guys like this. Humble, nice, smile on the face, all the time ready to give their everything, want to learn, want to improve.
"As a teammate, I would have loved to have played with him. He is a helper. He starts from minute one and finishes maybe in the shower. It's a pleasure to know the guy, have the guy, and I am super happy for him that things work out so well and now it is on him to keep on going and keep his feet on the ground.
"The rest we will decide. We are not in a rush."
Chelsea director Petr Cech is another senior figure to speak on Gallagher, hinting that he is in line to feature in Tuchel's squad next season. body check tags ::
