Conor Gallagher has not had a strong start to the season for Tottenham.
Tottenham Hotspur failed to score for the fourth league game running against Everton last weekend, continuing their poor start to the season. Things became grim in midweek when they were eliminated from the Carabao Cup by Liverpool.
Liverpool beat Spurs 3-1 at Anfield in the Carabao Cup third round. The Lilywhites edged the Reds in several crucial metrics, but when it came to scoring goals, they only managed one. And it came from Conor Gallagher, who converted Mateus Fernandes’ corner from close range.
Conor Gallagher has slipped down the pecking order this season after the big-money acquisitions of Mateus Fernandes and Sandro Tonali. He has featured only twice in the Premier League thus far, with Roberto De Zerbi preferring Fernandes in an advanced role.
Roberto De Zerbi makes big admission about Conor Gallagher
It has not been easy for Gallagher since moving to Spurs from Atletico Madrid in the January transfer window. He struggled to get going before De Zerbi arrived and the midfielder’s fortunes changed. The England international credited the 47-year-old for helping restore his confidence at the back end of last season.
Ahead of the Aston Villa game, De Zerbi has made a big admission about Gallagher. The 26-year-old has not been picked by England boss Thomas Tuchel for the games in the upcoming international break, but the Tottenham head coach rates him highly and says he “loves” him.
“Even if he doesn’t play every game, I love him. He’s generous, he’s a smart player, he has the right mentality,” De Zerbi said in his press conference (h/t Football London).
“Then there are other things in football, the characteristics. You have to understand before the game – because after the game it’s easier – what is the best characteristic you need for that game. When Conor has not played, it’s because I needed different characteristics just for that.
“For me, no, he’s not underrated. Maybe for other coaches or other people. For me, no. I think when I came last season, Conor didn’t play until my arrival. When I came, he played every game. We had less competition in the squad. But I love him. He’s my player. I know he’s a reliable player. When I call him, he’s always ready to fight, to run.”
Gallagher is a key player for De Zerbi
De Zerbi’s words should mean a lot for Gallagher. Even if he hasn’t been a regular fixture in his side, the Italian rates him highly and admires the qualities he brings, both on the ball and off it. The gaffer’s personal touch and tactical clarity ensure the England international remains a key player in his squad, prepared to step in and make vital contributions when called upon.
Gallagher’s best game in a Tottenham shirt last season came at Villa Park, where he scored the opener with a long-range drive. His goal was crucial in helping Spurs beat Villa 2-1. With Villa the next visitors in N17, the Epsom-born star will want to emulate something similar on Saturday if given an opportunity.
