Jamie O’Hara has delivered a glowing verdict on the development of Chelsea’s Conor Gallagher. He’s been debating whether he’d start the midfielder for England at this summer’s Euro 2024 tournament, too.
It was confirmed on Thursday that Chelsea had two representatives in the 26-man England squad that will fly out to Germany for the Euros.
First of all, Cole Palmer, 22, is in the Three lions squad after his brilliant debut year at Chelsea. The attacker ended up with 40 direct goal contributions (25 goals, 15 assists) in 45 Blues appearances.
He’s joined by club teammate Conor Gallagher in England’s travelling party, who go into the major international tournament as one of the favourites to lift the trophy
The 24-year-old midfielder was arguably Chelsea’s best player last season behind Palmer.
Would Jamie O’Hara start Chelsea ace Conor Gallagher for his country?
Jamie O’Hara thinks that Chelsea’s Gallagher improved a lot last season and fully deserves his spot in the England squad.
In fact, he’s even said that he would start him as one of three midfielders in the England XI.
O’Hara told Sky Sports Football: “I really like Conor Gallagher. A lot of people dig him out and say he’s not good enough, but his mentality, the way he plays football, his determination to go win the ball back for his side, his grit. I really like how he’s come on this season for Chelsea. I think he’s a really good player to have in your squad.
When discussing England’s starting midfield at the Euros, O’Hara later added: “I would start with Declan Rice. I would start Conor Gallagher alongside him. I would play Jude Bellingham in front. Conor Gallagher, for me, has had a really good season at Chelsea. He deserves to be there.”
England’s midfield options
The Chelsea Chronicle thinks Gallagher has a good shot of playing decent minutes at the Euros. He’s actually played in nine of the last 13 England games since the World Cup.
Chelsea’s star will be vying for a starting position alongside some serious talent in the international squad.
As well as Gallagher, Declan Rice, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Kobbie Mainoo, Adam Wharton and Jude Bellingham provide the midfield options for England boss Gareth Southgate.
If you want energy and aggression in the centre of the park, Gallagher is one of the best around right now in that department.