Chelsea cannot recall Conor Gallagher in January because the midfielder has played over 50 per cent of Crystal Palace’s matches so far.
The 21-year-old has been one the season’s star performers; earning him his first England cap, coming on as a second-half substitute in the 1-0 win over San Marino last month.
His form on loan at Selhurst Park has led to talk of the Blues recalling Gallagher in January to help supplement their trophy tilt next year.
Conor Gallagher (above) has enjoyed an impressive loan spell at Crystal Palace this season
However, Sportsmail can reveal that Gallagher is ineligible to return to Stamford Bridge at the turn of the year due to a quirk in his loan agreement.