TOTTENHAM fans will fall in love with willing worker Conor Gallagher straight away – regardless of his Chelsea past.
That is the view of Gus Poyet, who also played in midfield for both bitter rivals around the turn of the century.
Conor Gallagher joined Spurs this week from Atletico MadridCredit: Hotspur FC/Shutterstock
The Uruguayan believes ex-Blues star Gallagher, , will be an instant hit with any doubters thanks to his committed style.
While the £35million new man’s energy can help Spurs clinch victory in Saturday’s “must-win” game at home to West Ham.
Asked how hard it is to win over the Spurs faithful being an ex-Chelsea player, Poyet told SunSport via Stake Casino : “For Conor, this is no issue.
“It’s easy for him, simply by the way he plays football. He brings energy and drive on the pitch and that is what Spurs fans want.
“They want to see commitment, players fighting for the badge and this is what Conor brings.
“He runs, he works hard, he brings passion and can show this instantly so get them on side.
“It’s an unbelievable, top signing for Spurs.
“He gives everything on the pitch, takes responsibility and this is what Spurs need right now.
“This signing could really help Spurs and his way of playing can also spur others onto his level.”
moved quickly to bring in on Wednesday after Poyet’s compatriot Rodrigo Bentancur underwent surgery on a serious hamstring injury.
Gallagher comes from a family of fans and made 95 appearances for the West Londoners, before his sale to Atletico 18 months ago.
Poyet moved directly from Chelsea to Spurs in 2001 for £2.2m where, by his own admission, he underestimated the depth of feeling between the two sides at the time.
The 58-year-old explained: “I was a little naive.
“Chelsea wanted to beat Manchester United and Arsenal at the time as these teams were fighting for trophies. It wasn’t Tottenham at all who were a main rival at all during my time.
“After I signed, I realised, ‘Oh, maybe it was not as simple as I thought!’
“My first game was a pre-season friendly v Stevenage where I scored a hat-trick. I didn’t guarantee that every game, but the fans could see I gave everything on the pitch for them.
“Conor is the type of player Spurs can relate to as he has so much drive to play forward thinking football.
“He is English as well, so this can help with dialogue with fans and showing his commitment.
“His leadership qualities are massive. I hope they understand his personality (in the dressing room) as Spurs players need to take responsibility on the pitch.
“This is part of the reason they are where they are and it’s too comfortable.”
Spurs are 14th in the Premier League and out of both domestic cups going into Saturday’s hosting of relegation-threatened West Ham, with pressure rising on Thomas Frank.
Poyet added: “I am worried for Frank. The results are not good enough, performances as well.
“It’s a must-win for Spurs. Simple as that. They need to step up and be brave and perform, especially at home.
“With Conor in, he can give a big boost to the team. He will bring the energy.”
Gus Poyet left Chelsea in 2001 to join Tottenham
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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