Gallagher Double Downs Chelsea’s European Hopes, Sinks Struggling Palace

Conor Gallagher returned to haunt his former club Crystal Palace, scoring twice to lead Chelsea to a crucial 3-1 victory at Selhurst Park on Monday night.

The win keeps the Blues in the hunt for European football next season, while the Eagles remain precariously placed just five points above the relegation zone.

Despite missing key players through injury, Palace stunned the visitors when Jefferson Lerma unleashed a long-range strike that nestled into the top corner.

However, their joy was short-lived as Gallagher equalized within two minutes of the second half, smashing home Malo Gusto’s cross.

Chelsea suffered a blow when Thiago Silva went off injured, but they rallied late on.

Gallagher completed his brace thanks to a Cole Palmer assist, before the young playmaker set up Enzo Fernandez for a stoppage-time clincher.

The result leaves Palace fans frustrated and their manager, Roy Hodgson, under even more pressure.

Meanwhile, Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino can breathe a sigh of relief as his side rediscovered their winning touch ahead of a daunting trip to Manchester City.