Conor Gallagher says Frank Lampard’s legacy is fuelling his pursuit of England stardom.
The Chelsea midfielder, 24, has enjoyed an impressive season at Stamford Bridge after a productive loan spell at Crystal Palace two years ago. Those eye-catching Eagles performances earned him a maiden England call-up in November 2021 and the following year, Gallagher got a first taste of major tournament action as part of the Three Lions squad in 2022.
Gallagher has fond memories of watching Chelsea legend Lampard star on both the international and Premier League stages and now hopes to follow in his decorated 106-cap footsteps.
Gallagher, reflecting on his memories of watching the Three Lions on television as part of a new LG OLED TV collaboration ahead of this summer, said: "I remember watching England and the team with Lampard, David Beckham and Steven Gerrard when I was younger.
"Frank is a legend of Chelsea and England - he obviously got over 100 caps and a good amount of goals too. For someone to look up to, he is perfect for me.
"I don’t remember so many [details] of the games watching it back then as I was a bit younger, but now it just means the world to pull on an England shirt.
"It’s really special to represent your country and a very proud feeling for me and my family - I’m looking forward to hopefully putting the shirt on many more times.
"It’s massive to inspire the next generation - we have a fantastic squad who have achieved a lot already. I’m buzzing for this summer - it’s an honour to play for England and to be at a major tournament is incredible. Hopefully I can play my part as well.
"I just want to be part of the squad, be there and feel a part of it. We have a talented young squad with so many talented players, so it’s a really exciting time for England. I’m really looking forward to it."
Gallagher's international debut came just four months after England's agonising defeat on penalties against Italy at Wembley. And following a searing season at Selhurst Park, he was rewarded with a string of international appearances throughout 2021 and 2022.
Gallagher reckons recent major tournament heartbreak in 2022, in Russia and on home London soil will benefit England in Germany as they battle it out with the continent's best once more.
He added: "We've not won the trophies we think we can despite coming close a few times, so hopefully the next step is winning a trophy. I reckon previous experiences will help us a lot this summer - just having that experience, playing in big games against top countries in tournament football.
"I think it will help us in upcoming matches and we’re all really excited about.”
The England men's team caught up with LG at St George's Park recently as part of the leading TV manufacture’s ongoing partnership with The FA. From 13 May until 11 June this summer, football fans seeking the most immersive footballing experience from home can save up to 20% on all LG TVs and 50% off soundbars when bought with a LG TV. Visit https://www.lg.com/uk/fa/
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