Chelsea’s decision to recall Conor Gallagher came as a blow to Charlton and one that “hurt” manager Lee Bowyer.

The 19-year-old was recalled to the Blues earlier this week, cutting short his season long loan at The Valley, before being loaned out to promotion chasing Swansea almost on the same day.

Coming in to SE7 as an unknown quantity having not played senior football before, Gallagher’s emergence in the Addicks midfield alerted Premier League sides and those higher up the Championship table to take interest.

With six goals and three assists in 26 games he became a fan favourite, as well as a player his manager championed.

“It was a big blow,” Bowyer said.

“Chelsea sent an e-mail on Sunday evening and said they want to recall him, there’s nothing we can do.

“He’s been one of our best players this season.

“I think he would’ve got better and better.

“No one expected him to do what he’s done, it just shows what a good job we do here, we work hard and improve players, Conor’s no different.

“That’s why it hurt, because I wanted to keep working with Conor and keep improving, but he’s Chelsea’s player and I can’t control that unfortunately.

“It’s Chelsea’s choice and they will do what they feel is right for Chelsea football club.

“I’ve no disrespect for Swansea, they’re a good club with good players.

“But we have to move on.

“One person doesn’t make a squad.”

Loan Signings

Having sent Beram Kayal back to parent club Brighton with the midfielder recovering from surgery, it leaves two loan vacancies in Charlton’s allotted five, something Bowyer is keen to address.

One player who is also on loan is West Ham’s Josh Cullen.

The influential midfielder who’s expected to return form injury at Preston this weekend will stay at The Valley for the remainder of the season as the deadline for his recall has expired.

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