Ex-Chelsea star predicts Conor Gallagher’s next move with Crystal Palace still interested in midfielder

Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher has been tipped to go out on loan in January after a slow start to life at Stamford Bridge that has seen him left out of the current England squad.

The midfielder enjoyed a stellar season out on loan in south London - scoring eight goals and was influential as they made it to the last four of the FA Cup.

His performance with the Eagles earned him a spot in the Chelsea team this season, but after being sent off against Leicester and not particularly impressing against Leeds and West Ham United, he’s now lost his spot in the England squad.

New Chelsea boss Graham Potter is giving every player a clean slate to start his time in Cobham, but with Gallagher being an all out energy kind of midfielder, his style of play might not suit the possession based Potter wants to deploy.

Glen Johnson who played 41 games for the Blues says he expects him to go out on loan to rescue his carry and continue the development he started with consistent game time.

He told bettingodds.com: “I can see him leaving on loan in January. He needs to play week in, week out and continue to develop as a player.

“Maybe playing week in, week out for Chelsea is perhaps a step too far for him at present.

“If he goes out on loan and proves himself again then he can come back for pre-season next summer and get his opportunity again.”

Crystal Palace have held on firm without Conor Gallagher this season having held both Liverpool and Newcastle to impressive draws and beating Aston Villa at home.

Their campaign has however slowed following the postponement of games after the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

They also had their game against rivals Brighton and Hove Albion cancelled due to a predicted rail strike - and even though the strike was cancelled, the game could not hold as it had already been called off.