“I have to apologised”- Tuchel reveals what he told Chelsea player after denying him FA Cup semi-final
Ahead of Chelsea vs Crystal Palace FA Cup semi-final clash, Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel makes interesting admission on Chelsea loan Conor Gallagher.
Speaking in his pre-match presser for the Chelsea vs Crystal Palace FA Cup clash as quoted by The Mirror, Thomas Tuchel revealed that he apologised to Conor Gallagher as the player won’t be able to face his parent club in the crucial fixture.
The 22-year-old has been impressive with Crystal Palace this season. He has already bagged eight goals and notched up five assists in 32 matches across all competitions for the Eagles this season to date. He has been an integral part of Patrick Vieira’s setup at Selhurst Park and his absence would be a big loss to them.
This may be a sign of relief for the Blues who are recovering from a draining midweek encounter with Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League. That being said, the German manager highlighted that he spoke to Gallagher and even sympathised with him and the French manager.
Speaking ahead of the FA Cup tie as quoted by The Mirror, Tuchel highlights how he bumped into the English midfielder in a restaurant after the international break. The 48-year-old manager relayed his apologies to the player but highlighted that the rules were in place to help the club.
“I had the chance to speak to Conor and I could also see his frustration. We met weeks ago by coincidence in a restaurant after the international break and we had a chat, and the subject came up. I apologised because I know how competitive he is and I like him a lot. I know his character very well and it was a pleasure to have him here in pre-season.
Thomas Tuchel admitted to understanding the disappointment of Vieira and Conor Gallagher but reiterated that the Stamford Bridge outfit shouldn’t have to suffer from their rules. The German boss highlighted that they play every game with a view of winning it.
“It’s the way it is. We play to win the game and the rules were clear when we made the loan, and I can totally understand Patrick Viera and also the disappointment of Conor of course. But these were the rules when we did the loan and we don’t want to suffer from our rules.”