Conor Gallagher bids farewell to Eagles in emotional letter

When a player arrives on loan, the hope is that they do well and can move on with everyone happy. Loans are typically a one-season only affair, and for that reason it pays not to get too attached. However, the form and presence of Conor Gallagher at the club has definitely left an impression. Sadly, it looks like this will be his only season in South London. Heading back to parent club Chelsea, Palace will need to find a replacement for one of the best young midfielders in the Premier League last year.

In a recent statement, then, Gallagher said his farewells to the club. Hopes were high that the Eagles could get him back for a second loan spell. However, he has impressed Thomas Tuchel so much that he will instead report to Cobham for training in pre-season. If he can impress, he will stay as part of the first-team picture at Chelsea.

For now, then, it looks like Gallagher will simply be a player that fans can hope does well in the future. In an emotional address on social media, Gallagher made it sound pretty clear that he felt his time at the club was coming to an end.

What did Conor Gallagher say about leaving Crystal Palace?

An emotional and endearing lad most of the time, Gallagher had fans reaching for a hankie when he admitted he was leaving. Speaking about the likely exit, Gallagher posted on his official Instagram page: “I’m so proud to have been part of this team in which was a very successful season in the league and getting to Wembley for the FA cup semi final was amazing,

“From my first contact with Patrick he’s been brilliant with me and helped me develop into a better player, for which I can’t thank him enough. The players and staff have made me feel like I’ve been here for years and the fans have made me feel so at home. Your support helped us in tough games this season and it can make all the difference!”

Given his form, it was no surprise that he was voted the fans player of the year. On that note, Gallagher added: “I’ve given everything this season for the club and was delighted to be the supporters player of the year, thank you all so much for your support.

“It’s been so special to play for this great club. Hopefully I showed that in my performances on the pitch and how proud I was to wear the shirt. Thank you.”

While it is a shame that we will likely not see Gallagher back as a Palace player, fans can enjoy the season spent together. In a year of promise and potential, Gallagher was among the most exciting parts of the entire season. We just need to hope that, like many former players, he does not become a specialist in coming back to bite us in the many seasons to come!