Former Chelsea defender, Mario Melchiot has praised Conor Gallagher as an important part of Mauricio Pochettino’s current side, due to what he brings to the team.

Conor Gallagher was the star for Chelsea on Monday night, as they picked up a valuable three points with an away victory against Crystal Palace.

The midfielder, often hailed as one of the best players at Stamford Bridge, scored two instinctive goals to help Chelsea overturn what looked to be a 1-0 loss, before Enzo Fernandez netted his seventh of the season to make it 3-1 and secure the points.

Gallagher’s performance earned him the ‘Man of the Match’ award at Selhurst Park, and now, Melchiot has highlighted exactly what the 23-year-old brings to the Chelsea team.

“I think he’s the one who kind of drives the team, when they need character, energy and motivation. He’s always showing it… This is a team that has to hold on to part of their culture, that’s why I think he’s very important,” the former Chelsea defender told ESPN.

Despite rumours that Conor Gallagher could still end up getting sold in the summer amid Chelsea’s need to raise some funds, Pochettino recently revealed that the player has specifically told him he wants to remain at Stamford Bridge, which will now undoubtedly further endear him to the fans.