The England international, who previously enjoyed a loan spell with the Eagles, shone for Chelsea in the midfield as Kai Havertz’s goal ensured a 1-0 win over our London rivals.

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It got us back to winning ways after a recent difficult spell and now Gallagher hopes to see the Blues move forward in a similar fashion.

‘It was a big win for us and the most important thing was getting the three points,’ he said, when reflecting on the three points.

‘We’ve had a difficult run recently but we felt confident that we could come into this game and get the victory, so that was very pleasing.

‘We were excellent in the first half. Naturally, in the second half, we knew they’d put a lot more pressure on us but I felt like we dealt with everything thrown at us and we defended great.

‘We want to dominate games and it’s a good three points for us. It’s something for us to build on now.

‘I was pleased with my performance. Before the game I said to myself that I wanted to get around the pitch and do everything I could to help the team win the match.

‘I wanted to be as busy as possible and try and impact the game as much as possible. I felt as if I did that but it was a real team effort and we’ve got to be happy with the performance and, of course, the result.’

It was an emotional day at Stamford Bridge, with tributes to Gianluca Vialli taking place before the game.

Gallagher paid his respects to the Italian, who sadly passed away recently, and felt securing the three points was fitting for Vialli’s legacy.

‘I thought the tributes to Vialli were just amazing and I think everybody connected with Chelsea deserves praise for it all,’ added the midfielder.

‘I didn’t realise all the guys were going to be on the pitch before the game lining up. I looked over and saw JT and Jody Morris, who was my coach in the Academy for many years, and we had a nice moment where we caught each other’s eyes and had a smile.

‘Then I saw the video on the big screen and it was very emotional, I was almost in tears.

‘I didn’t know Luca personally but I know how much of a legend he is at this club and it was just brilliant we could get the win on such an emotional day.’