New York Times journalist, Rory Smith has hailed Conor Gallagher for his decision to remain at Stamford Bridge this season, despite reports he might have been sold.

Gallagher, who was previously one of Chelsea’s most criticised players, has surprised everyone this season to become arguably one of the best players at the club under Mauricio Pochettino.

The 23-year-old has started every game since Poch arrived, putting in some great performances along the way— and most recently in the 2-2 draw with Arsenal, where he began the move that led to Mykhailo Mudryk’s second goal this season.

Gallagher’s good turn of form comes after some media outfits reported that Chelsea were ready to let him go for the right sum over the summer, although the player chose to stay and fight for his place.

Smith told BBC Radio 5 Live: “He stayed, gritted his teeth and thought ‘I am going to win my place, be crucial to this team and do whatever the manager wants me to do so that I can play’. He’s done that brilliantly.

“He’s one of their players of the season, it’s been an up and down season too so far, but he’s been one of their standout players.”