Gallagher started Saturday's 2-0 victory over Sheffield United and was handed the captaincy once again. The 23-year-old produced a now trademark tireless display in midfield alongside Moises Caicedo, who also impressed.

Pochettino's decision to select that duo in tandem meant there was no place in the starting XI for Enzo Fernandez. The Argentine was among the Blues substitutes and played the final 20 minutes of the contest.

'When you are in a very busy period, players need to understand that they can play but maybe they also need to rest,' Pochettino explained why asked about his midfield selection against the Blades.

'Then it’s about the best combination for the team. When everyone is fit, maybe we need different combinations in different games. Then [if you don't play] you need to wait and try to show maybe I made a mistake.'

That Gallagher completed 90 minutes against Sheffield United will not have come as a surprise to Pochettino and supporters alike. And the Chelsea head coach outlined the qualities the Academy graduate brings to the side.

Pochettino explained: ‘He’s important because he has Chelsea values, he is a product that came from the Academy and has the identity of the club. He loves the club and is very committed.

'You can see on the pitch: he runs, he plays, he fights, he gives everything to try to win. He is a really important player, a type of player every coaching staff wants to have in the team.’