England’s engine Conor Gallagher reveals he suffers from ASTHMA and puts energetic performances down to mind over matter
CONOR GALLAGHER has revealed he has asthma.
The England star, 24, has a reputation for being the fittest player in Gareth Southgate’s squad.
He denies that is the case – putting his non-stop energy down more to his mentality.
But when discussing the “engine” – his ability to get up and down the pitch relentlessly – he reckons he was born with, the midfielder also talked about his respiratory issue.
Speaking on FA show Lions’ Den, the Chelsea man said: “I think I was born with it (his engine), but funnily enough I’ve got asthma as well.
“It always shocks everyone to be fair.
“I always give my best. I don’t think I’m fitter than everyone else. I would say there are a lot of lads fitter than me in the squad.”
Asked if it was his mindset, rather than his physical endurance capacity, that made him such a fit player, Gallagher replied: “That’s what it is.
“I leave it all on the pitch but believe me I’m knackered at the end of it.”
Former England midfielder Paul Scholes famously had asthma, a long-term inflammatory disease of the airways in the lungs which requires an inhaler to help with breathing.
Meanwhile, Gallagher might soon have an even more strenuous role – if he earns a starting place for Tuesday’s final group game with Slovenia.
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There have been calls for Southgate to replace Trent Alexander-Arnold with a more orthodox midfielder.
That could mean Crystal Palace’s technically-skilled Adam Wharton.
But Gallagher and Manchester United’s Kobbie Mainoo are the options most talked about.
Former England and Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher is amongst those who agree.
The pundit posted on X: “England have to sacrifice quality in Trent & Foden for energy in Gallagher or Mainoo & pace in (Anthony) Gordon.
“Kane needs pace either side of him & (Declan) Rice needs more help in midfield. Go 433 & drop (Jude) Bellingham slightly deeper.”
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