Conor Gallagher started on the bench for Chelsea’s 6-1 win over Middlesbrough in the Carabao Cup (AP)
Gary Neville has questioned Chelsea over their decision to consider selling Conor Gallagher during the January transfer window.
Gallagher was left out of Chelsea’s starting line-up on Tuesday evening for the second leg of their Carabao Cup semi final against Middlesbrough but came on as a second-half substitute as Mauricio Pochettino’s side booked their place at Wembley with a 6-1 win at Stamford Bridge.
The 23-year-old has captained Chelsea in Reece James’ absence and has been a consistent performer under Pochettino this season.
It’s understood that Chelsea have contemplated selling Gallagher this month, with Tottenham keen on a move for the England international.
However, Neville has suggested that Chelsea should resist the urge to offload Gallagher.
Conor Gallagher has been one of Chelsea’s standout performers this season (Reuters)
‘Are Chelsea really going to sell him?’ Neville said during his commentary for Sky Sports.
Neville’s co-commentator, Bill Leslie, then said: ‘Well if you are in the camp that think that they might, the fact he was left out tonight, does that tell you anything?’
To which Neville replied: ‘Yeah, that’s what I thought when I saw the teamsheet come through.
‘It’s come to a point where by you’ve spent that much money you’ve got to sell one of your own, who is playing pretty well, to fund it.’
When asked about Gallagher’s future earlier this month, Pochettino refused to categorically rule out the prospect of the midfielder leaving Stamford Bridge before the end of the window.
‘Look, I cannot guarantee I will be here tomorrow! In football, different things can happen. [There are] decisions between the club and player,’ Pochettino said.
‘Only the player can guarantee or the club. The player more than the club as the player have one year and half more.
‘[Gallagher] can say “I will be here because my contract allows me to be here”. It’s about making the right decision for the club, the player and the team.’
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‘Are Chelsea really going to sell him?’