"The play he has shown makes you win trophies" - Gianfranco Zola thinks 'important' Chelsea star is key for England at Euro 2024

Chelsea legend Gianfranco Zola thinks Conor Gallagher is key for England at the UEFA Euro 2024. The 24-year-old is making his first appearance at a major international tournament for the Three Lions, coming off the bench against Serbia and Denmark, before starting against Slovenia.

Gareth Southgate's side drew 0-0 in the latter, with their progresion to last-16 already sealed. However, it drew an avalanche of criticism from the media and fans online, as England put up a rudderless display.

In what seemed like an opportunity for him to demonstrate his ability, Gallagher flattered to deceive. He was sloppy in possession and offered nothing meaningful going forward, before getting hooked off at the break.

Zola, though, had a different opinion. He held the Chelsea midfielder in high regard, saying he could play an important role for England, and perhaps even guide them to titles. He said (via SportBible):

"Conor Gallagher was very important because he gave the team the type of quality that was needed. He has been essential because again, flair can make you win a game, but the play he has shown makes you win trophies."

Gallagher is coming off the back of a promising campaign with Chelsea that saw him net seven times and assist a further nine goals in all competitions. He is, however, yet to produce that form with England at the Euros.

The Three Lions play Slovakia in the round of 16 of the Euro 2024 at the Arena AufSchalke in Gelsenkirchen on Sunday.

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Conor Gallgher is yet to open his goalscoring account for England

Since making his England debut in November 2021, Conor Gallagher has earned 16 caps, but has made just one direct contribution - an assist in their 2-1 friendly win over Switzerland. He's yet to score a goal though.

Playing in the midfield role, one cannot expect him to score as often, but the 24-year-old certainly has the ability to bag a few, although we are yet to see that with the Three Lions.

It may have to do with his more withdrawn role with the national side, as they possess a handful of attackers, but Gallagher's playmaking skills haven't flourished in the national set-up either.