Chelsea dominate Palace awards and Eagles want to sign Gallagher despite Liverpool talk

The Eagles have had a fine first season under Patrick Vieira and some smart transfer business with the Blues has done them the world of good in the Premier League.

Conor Gallagher was awarded Crystal Palace's Player of the Season award after an outstanding campaign on-loan from the west Londoners, with ex-Blues defender Marc Guehi also scooping an accolade.

The 22-year-old was presented with the award on Monday after playing an instrumental part for the Eagles this season.

The Epsom-born midfielder has made 36 appearances to date, scoring eight times across all competitions.

In doing so, he has got his hands on the club's Player of the Month award twice, Goal of the Month once and clinched Young Player of the Year at the 2022 London Football Awards.

Gallagher, who has netted against Brighton, Manchester City and Wolves, has also produced stunning efforts against Watford and Everton, before bagging a brace when facing West Ham, was also rewarded with his first senior England call-up in November last year.

He made his debut in the 10-0 victory over San Marino last year, and has also clocked up two more caps for the Three Lions since then.

Speaking at the ceremony at Boxpark Croydon, Gallagher said: "Its massive. Honestly, from the bottom of my heart I can't thank the fans enough. You've been brilliant from the first day and I've loved every minute of playing for Crystal Palace.

"I want to thank the players and the staff as well, because they've been unreal. I really appreciate it, so thank you so much.

"There have been a few highlights, it's hard to pick one. But Manchester City, that win there and scoring was an amazing feeling."

Palace chairman Steve Parish is hopeful the club can sign the midfielder on a permanent basis this summer.

"We would love to have him back, I am not going to pretend that is not the case", said Parish.

"Conor [Gallagher] will make his own choices of course, and the club will have something to say about it, but we have enjoyed every minutes of having him here this year.

"So if that is all we get of him, and I hope not, he has been a fantastic asset to the club as a player, and as a person as well."

It remains to be seen where he will be playing his football next season, but Charlie Austin previously claimed Gallagher would be the perfect replacement for Liverpool skipper Jordan Henderson.

The Chelsea connection at the ceremony was evident, as former Blues defender Guehi was voted the Players' Player of the Year too.

Guehi, 21, has featured 40 times, more than any other player for Palace this season, helping his side to keep 12 clean sheets, and even chipped in with four goals.

The future at Palace looks bright, but Parish will be hoping Vieira can work his magic by helping Gallagher following the footsteps of Guehi by moving to Selhurst Park on a permanent basis.