Pochettino suggests he’s powerless at Chelsea and can’t block January transfer
‘No fear at home’ | Mauricio Pochettino reviews Chelsea’s win against Sheffield United
Chelsea head coach Mauricio Pochettino has stressed his desire for Conor Gallagher to stay at the club amid reports suggesting he could be put in the shop window next month. However, Pochettino has hinted that the final decision on the 23-year-old’s future won’t be down to him as the January transfer window edges closer.
Gallagher has played a crucial role at the start of the Argentine’s project at Stamford Bridge, making 19 appearances in the Premier League and Carabao Cup.
He has started 16 of Chelsea’s 17 league outings this season, only missing the 2-1 defeat at Manchester United through suspension.
Pochettino has highlighted his admiration of Gallagher by naming him captain on nine occasions during Reece James’ continued injury woes.
But the Mail report that Chelsea are prepared to let the Cobham graduate depart next month to raise funds for other areas of Pochettino’s squad.
Gallagher’s current contract is due to expire in 2025, but he has yet to be offered an extension, and there has been little progress made during talks.
Pochettino was asked about his midfielder’s uncertain future following Saturday’s 2-0 victory against Sheffield United at Stamford Bridge.
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But the 51-year-old gave the impression that Gallagher’s fate wasn’t in his hands, but it was instead down the club’s decision-makers.
“He is an important player for us, but that is more a thing between the club and the player,” Pochettino said when asked if he’d like to keep the England international.
He took the opportunity to heap praise on Gallagher, though, amid reported interest from London rivals Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham United.
Pochettino added: “I am really, really pleased because of his unbelievable commitment. He is one of the captains.
“He has a massive impact on the game. He is a box-to-box player, and we are so happy with his performance.”
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Chelsea moved up to 10th with their 2-0 win against relegation-threatened Sheffield United, just their second triumph in six games.
Gallagher played the entire game alongside Moises Caicedo in midfield, but the Blues were frustrated in the first half, entering the break goalless.
But Cole Palmer broke the deadlock in the 54th minute before Palmer turned provider for Nicolas Jackson seven minutes later.
Chelsea end 2023 with a Premier League triple-header, involving trips to Wolves and Luton Town and welcoming Crystal Palace in west London.
However, Pochettino’s side first host Newcastle United on Tuesday for a spot in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals.
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