Conor Gallagher has opened up on the impact Patrick Vieira has had on him this season after he was crowned Young Player of the Year at the London Football Awards on Thursday night.
The 22-year-old, who arrived in SE25 on loan from Chelsea in the summer, has been an instant hit with the fans for his tireless and eyecatching performances from midfield.
Gallagher is currently the club’s joint-top scorer this season with eight goals while also chipping in with five assists - by far his best numbers in front of goal as a senior professional.
His hot form was recognised in November by England manager Gareth Southgate, who handed him his first Three Lions appearance off the bench against San Marino in a World Cup Qualifier.
Gallagher beat teammate Tyrick Mitchell, last year’s winner Bukayo Saka (Arsenal), Oliver Skipp (Spurs) and Fabio Carvalho (Fulham) to the award, crediting Crystal Palace for helping him settle so quickly in south London.
“From day one I feel like I was welcomed like I was at home, which means a lot to me,” he told the Palace website. “I like to be comfortable, I like to be confident on and off the pitch.
“The people here, players and staff, the manager, they’ve all helped me with that and helped me play the best I can. I feel like that’s a big factor.
“I feel like the gaffer knows how to get the best out of me,” he added. “He knew how he wants me to play and the best way I can show what I can do.
“He told me this at the start of the season and has given me confidence throughout the season by playing me as much as he has and having trust in me and talking to me, so I’m really thankful to him.
“He’s helped me so much so far this season and I feel like receiving this award as well, he’s a big part of it. He’s been amazing to work under and I’m hoping to learn even more from him until the end of the season.
