Conor Gallagher has been informed by Mauricio Pochettino, the manager of Chelsea, that he shouldn’t be shocked to be named one of the captains.
Last Sunday’s 0-0 draw at the Vitality Stadium saw Gallagher start as captain against Bournemouth. But the Chelsea player was surprised to find out that he had been granted the armband by Mauricio Pochettino prior to the game.
Gallagher stated
“Against Bournemouth I had no idea I was captain. I didn’t think I would be, if I’m being honest. But I lifted up my kit to arrange it before I put it on and the armband was there. I said to the kitman ‘is this mine’ and he said ‘yeah’, so that’s how I found out.”
Conor Gallagher further added
“To captain the side on a couple of occasions is really special. My parents are really proud too. There was no phone service in the changing room, so they didn’t get my message. They just saw me on the pitch with the armband, but I think that was a nicer surprise anyway.”
Mauricio Pochettino wants Gallagher to wear the Chelsea armband
Since Cesar Azpilicueta left, Reece James has taken over as captain. However, he is now sidelined due to an injury, while vice-captain Ben Chilwell was sitting on the bench. Mauricio Pochettino also admitted to Gallagher that having Chelsea roots helped him win the captaincy.
In his press conference on Friday, the Argentine coach said
“He was captain against Wimbledon also. He is supposed to be captain. It’s nice.”
Mauricio Pochettino further added
“It is normal if you see the starting XI versus Bournemouth, he was also captain versus Wimbledon, it’s not a big thing to create a party. He can be a captain, he is from Chelsea and it is perfect for him to represent the team.”
It follows after a summer in which the England international was rumoured to be moving on from Chelsea. Both Tottenham and West Ham showed interest in signing Gallagher. The midfielder has started each game this season because Mauricio Pochettino is still a great supporter of him.
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