Chelsea loanee Conor Gallagher – “I’m off to a great start at Charlton – I have to keep it going”
BY LOUIS MENDEZ
Conor Gallagher is experiencing his first ever taste of men’s football at Charlton – and it could hardly have begun in better fashion.
The 19-year-old midfielder, on a season-long loan at The Valley from Premier League giants Chelsea, has scored in each of the two games he has started for the South Londoners, including grabbing the Addicks’ first goal during an entertaining 2-2 draw at Barnsley on Saturday.
“I was hoping to get good minutes here,” explained Gallagher, who was part of the England side that won the under-17 World Cup in 2017.
“I’ve got off to a great start, I couldn’t ask for any more really. I’ve just got to try my best to carry on the form that I’m on and the team are on and get as many points on the board as possible. Just to play as much as possible, win games and score goals. That’s the main aim for me.
“I wanted to play in the Championship and Charlton had just got promoted. I felt like I wanted to play a big part in the team and I felt at Charlton I could do that. I’d heard what Lee Bowyer is like and how he is with players. I’ve already seen it already, how he is with me.
“He’s already taught me a lot and it’s only been two weeks. He’s a great manager and I think he’ll help me a lot this season. He was a midfielder when he played and knows what it’s like for us midfielders in games like that [at Barnsley]. He understands, which helps us. He was pleased. He knew it was a tough game and everyone was happy we got the goal at the end.
“There is a difference [between youth and senior football],” added Gallagher.
“I played four Checkatrade games last season with the 23s against League One teams. So, I kind of knew what to expect but it’s obviously a step up. I’m still getting used to it but hopefully there’s more to come.
“Chelsea helped with the loan move. They helped me sign with Charlton for the season. They know it would be a good club. They just want me to get as much experience as possible in Championship football so that’s the main thing.’
PHOTOS SEAN GOSLING
