Chelsea’s Conor Gallagher ‘speechless’ when asked to reflect on hit loan stay at Crystal Palace

BY ANDREW MCSTEEN

Crystal Palace’s Player of the Season Conor Gallagher admitted he was speechless when asked to reflect on his season.

The 22-year-old has returned to parent club Chelsea following the completion of his season-long loan yesterday.

“It’s been unreal – I’ve loved every minute of it,” Gallagher told Palace TV after the Eagles defeated Manchester United 1-0 to end their Premier League campaign in 12th place.

“Of course, there’s been ups and downs, but I’ve developed a lot as a player and as a person. I can’t thank the Palace fans enough and obviously the players at Palace. It’s just been brilliant and I’ve just felt at home since the very first day.”

After 39 appearances and eight goals for Palace, his first senior England call-up and reaching an FA Cup semi-final, he returns to west London with Palace fans and manager Patrick Vieira hopeful of securing at least a loan extension leading up to the World Cup at the end of the year.

But, whatever happens, Gallagher will have fond memories of his season in SE25.

“So many games have been standout ones, there’s not one,” he said as he was walked around the Selhurst Park pitch on the traditional end-of-season lap of appreciation.

“I’m speechless just because I’ve loved it so much. It’s just going to be a great memory and I’m so happy that I was able to play for Palace this season, I’ve just loved it.

“It was a great performance to end the season. I’m buzzing that we got the win. It was brilliant for the fans and it just seals off a great season for Palace.”

With the home fans singing his name for one last time, Gallagher took time out to praise the ongoing support he has received all season.

“They’ve been brilliant,” he said. “They’re all here now they’ve supported us home and away, they’ve been unreal. I can’t thank them enough. They’ve supported me as well so much. It’s just been brilliant. I thank them so much.”

PICTURE: KEITH GILLARD