Conor Gallagher: Thank you Crystal Palace. I felt at home here and I love you

There is already plenty of nostalgia in South London.

Was it Conor Gallagher’s last game in a Crystal Palace shirt on Sunday afternoon? It might have been and it most likely was. But not necessarily. Nobody knows the future and things change overnight in life, not least in football.

But in the event that the 1-0 win over Manchester United really was the Chelsea loanee’s final act as an Eagle, he will undoubtedly be missed by fans, teammates and Patrick Vieira alike.

Because Gallagher’s fearlessness, youthful exuberance and attacking quality on the ball are hard to find in a midfielder of his age.

The 22-year old’s season-long loan spell in SE25 has come to an end and he may now feast the eyes of Chelsea fans after going out on loan to mature at four different clubs since 2019.

Speaking to Capital Football in the aftermath of the game against the Red Devils, he revealed that he will always have a soft spot for Crystal Palace as he thanked the “amazing” fans for their invaluable contribution.

He said: “[Playing at Crystal Palace] meant so much.

“I’ve loved playing for Crystal Palace, from the first day I felt at home.

“The fans have been just amazing, every single game, home and away.

“And I thank them for making me feel so welcome. It’s been a fantastic season.”

Gallagher scored eight goals last term, which is his best-ever return in a single Premier League campaign as he has enjoyed a growing standing in the game.

And the youngster eulogised manager Patrick Vieira for helping him scale such heights.

He said: “I’ve loved working under Patrick, he’s been amazing with me.

“And I thank him for how he’s helped me this season.

“ And not just him, the backroom staff have been amazing and the players as well.

“ I’ve just loved every minute there.”