CONOR GALLAGHER says Crystal Palace boss Patrick Vieira is behind his rise to become an England international.
The midfielder, on loan from Chelsea, slotted in comfortably after coming off the bench in the Three Lions’ 10-0 win over San Marino on Monday.
Gallagher, 21, said: “Working under Patrick is amazing.
“He was one of the best midfielders in the Premier League so to learn from him and work under him is brilliant.
“He helps me a lot, tactically, and most importantly, which is really good, is how he knows my strengths and tells me what to do in terms of that.
“So I am allowed to make the box and do what I do best which is part of the reason why I’ve had a good start to the season.”
Gallagher was clearly shocked at his late call-up to the senior team by Gareth Southgate having been with the under-21s.
He said: “I didn’t expect to be here at all. I was with the under-21s preparing for our next game.
“That’s when I got a call from Gareth to come and join the senior team. I was over the moon.
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“I was hoping to get some minutes so I could make my debut and thankfully I did.
“It’s a little bit nerve-wracking because there’s a lot of big names, big players, players I’ve only just met really.
“I play against them but to play with them is new.
“The guys were all really nice guys and were really welcoming.”
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