Gallagher adding goals to his game in advanced role for Blues

Conor Gallagher's goals are like London buses — with no sign of one coming, the Chelsea midfielder now has three in two games.

The first came in a 3-1 FA Cup win at Aston Villa and was immediately followed by a brace in Monday's Premier League victory over Crystal Palace.

And the addition of goals to his game will only make the No23 an even more important figure at Stamford Bridge.

Ahead of their clash with champions Manchester City, we assess whether Gallagher could thrive as one the Blues' main attackers.

Indispensable figure

There is no question that Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino is an admirer of Gallagher.

After the Palace win, he said: "I think he's a player with a great commitment to the team, always trying to compensate for every single situation.

"It's priceless to have a player like him. I'm so happy for him."

Asked about rumours of Gallagher's potential exit, the Argentine added: "What he said to me was that he wanted to stay at Chelsea.

"But it's about him and the club. I am not [worried about] these types of things — he has another year on his contract.

"But that's a matter for him and the club."

Keeping hold of such a key figure could be vital for Pochettino as he looks to make his mark on a team still in a period of transition.

Attacking adjustment

A slight change in Gallagher's role in the team has paid off for Chelsea.

The 24-year-old has operated further forward of late, with Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo offering protection behind him.

That has allowed Gallagher the freedom to push forward and demonstrate an eye for goal that had been suppressed for much of the campaign.

Even before his flurry of goals, though, the England international's contribution was clear.

No player in the Premier League has won more possessions in the attacking third (31), while he ranks first at Chelsea for passes into the final third (368) and tackles (56).

His pass completion rate of 91.1% is further evidence of an impressive ability to keep things ticking over in midfield.

Gallagher's strengths — both in and out of possession — have made him an invaluable member of Pochettino's squad.

Short-term success

Speculation surrounding Gallagher's future is all the more surprising given his eye-catching performances this season.

But for now, at least, the Cobham graduate is fully focused on succeeding with Chelsea and leading by example in a talented but youthful team.

After his brace against former club Palace, he said: "I really enjoyed scoring the two goals.

"I've not scored enough this season so to get two is a big confidence boost for me in front of goal.

"That it was against Palace, well that's kind of typical now, to be honest."

With confidence high and self-belief growing, Gallagher will hope he can have a similar impact as Chelsea make the daunting trip to the Etihad.