Conor Gallagher's recent performance for Atletico Madrid has given Diego Simeone a right headache, and for good reason, mate.
Gallagher's performance against Sevilla
The 25-year-old lad started for only the second time in Atleti's last nine league games, but he made his presence felt as they beat Sevilla 2-1. The former Chelsea bloke won the penalty that led to Julian Alvarez's goal, showing his deftness with a cracking first touch that nutmegged Kike Salas and took him into the box.
Gallagher's defensive prowess
But it wasn't just his attacking play that caught the eye. Gallagher was a right menace defensively too, winning all seven of his ground and aerial duels and managing five ball recoveries. He was the only outfield starter who didn't lose a single duel, which is no mean feat in the beautiful game.
Gallagher's attacking threat
In attack, Gallagher completed 82 per cent of his passes and had seven touches in the Sevilla box, with only Atleti's Giuliano Simeone having more touches in the opposition box. Gallagher and Simeone were also the most fouled players, being bundled over three times by Sevilla's muppets.
Atleti fans' reaction
Atletico Madrid's official account on X even bigged him up, writing: "Conor Gallagher. What a game. My goodness." And Atleti fans were quick to praise Gallagher's performance, with many believing he deserves a regular spot in Simeone's starting XI.
What next for Gallagher?
With eight LaLiga fixtures to go, Gallagher will be hoping to play a key role as Simeone's side look to secure Champions League football again. But given Simeone's track record of taking liberties with his team selection, who knows what the future holds for the young English lad.
One thing's for sure, though - if Simeone doesn't give Gallagher more playing time, he's a right mug. The lad's got talent coming out of his ears, and he deserves to be given a proper chance to shine in the beautiful game.
