Conor Gallagher admitted that he was surprised to have been called to the England World Cup squad. The 22-year-old is one of three Blues players who will represent the Three Lions in Qatar later this month.
He has featured 18 times for the west Londoners this term, directly contributing towards two goals from midfield. However, not all of these have been starts, with many of his appearances coming off the bench.
First-team minutes have been of the essence at Chelsea, and a change of management didn't help his cause. But he ploughed on and eventually forced his way into Graham Potter's plans and went on to impress Southgate.
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Speaking to the Evening Standard, Gallagher revealed his shock at the call-up and how he found out he'd be representing his country at the highest level in Qatar. He said: "To be honest, I didn't expect it.
"I don't know about percentages. I'm not great at maths. I didn't really expect it. Obviously, I was hoping there was a chance. I kept hoping, and when I got the text, I was so proud and honoured.
"I told my dad first, like always. He'd always be the first person I'd tell that amazing news to. He's my biggest fan and my biggest inspiration."
Southgate claimed that he selected Gallagher for the 26-man squad due to the midfielder's 'impact' and 'goal threat'. The Three Lions boss also paid homage to the Cobham graduate's response to previously being left out of the England squad.
"He is fantastic at pressing the ball, and there will be moments when we need certain attributes," the 52-year-old said. "We feel he can be that sort of player, not as experienced, but he has an impact and a goal threat.
"When you talk about the midfield, you look to score and create and does a bit of all of that. We were really pleased with his reaction to being left out when he went with the U21s.
"His mentality was excellent," Southgate added. "It is a great example that there is always a route back with us."
There was no significant mention of Gallagher's recent form at Chelsea in the England boss' glowing review. The Blues midfielder is eager to prove Southgate right and grab the opportunity by the scruff of the neck.
"A lot of people said I was at a team where I played week in, week out, and I would have had more of a chance," Gallagher said, alluding to his time at Crystal Palace on loan. "[They also said] maybe I haven't played as much football as I'd like, but I am at Chelsea, which is my dream club, the team I always wanted to play for
"I am trying to prove myself there and impress the manager as much as I can. Luckily enough, I was called up for the World Cup is a great feeling. All focus now is on here and training as hard as we can to get ready for the games."
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