Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher has been opportune to captain the West London side twice in his career.

The Blues academy graduate started training with the club at the age of six and rose through the youth ranks to become an important member of the senior squad.

Gallagher’s first captain experience for Mauricio Pochettino’s side was in the Carabao Cup victory over Wimbledon. However, the second was the Premier league match against Bournemouth last Sunday which the player admitted was a surprise.

“Against Bournemouth I had no idea I was captain,” explained Gallagher.

“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.

“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!”