BLUES DEBT TO CON OF THEIR OWN

Gallagher at double to inspire Blues to 13 in a row over Palace

- JOHN CROSS

THE home-grown hero delivered yet again.

And it begs the question: where on earth would Chelsea be without Conor Gallagher? The Blues were ready to sell him in the January transfer window to balance the books but Gallagher's indomitable spirit deserves to set the tone at Stamford Bridge for years to come.

Gallagher scored twice as Chelsea came from behind after a dismal first-half showing before Enzo Fernandez then grabbed a third to put the heat back on Crystal Palace boss Roy Hodgson.

Chelsea were woeful in the first 45 minutes. They did not manage a shot of any sort until first-half injury-time and not even £lbillion quid can buy you heart and desire.

But Gallagher, the kid who did not cost a penny, struck at the double to make it 13 straight wins for Chelsea over Palace.

No wonder there was a smattering of boos from the home fans at the end.