Credit: The Rest Is Football and Imago

Max Wilkins

Mon 4 May 2026 11:40, UK

Gary Lineker only had good things to say about Conor Gallagher after Tottenham Hotspur secured victory over Aston Villa.

The Englishman finally looked like the player that Spurs had signed in January as he helped his side to back-to-back away wins.

Victory over Unai Emery’s side was bizarrely easy as goals from the 26-year-old and Richarlison made all the difference in the Midlands.

The Lilywhites probably should have scored more on the day, as chances flowed throughout the game, as the Villans put in a shocking performance.

Gallagher put in a star showing against Villa, and that hasn’t been ignored by Lineker, who has now piled praise on the midfielder.

Gary Lineker and Alan Shearer loved Conor Gallagher vs Aston Villa

The former Chelsea midfielder has rightly faced scrutiny since completing a January switch from Atletico Madrid.

His lack of impact has been clear for all to see, but things have certainly been better since the introduction of Roberto De Zerbi.

That was on show against Wolves and continued across the West Midlands at Villa Park as the ex-England international put in a stellar showcase.

He got on the scoresheet, but that was just the tip of the iceberg of what was an excellent performance, which was picked out by Alan Shearer on the Rest is Football.

He said: “Conor Gallagher epitomised everything you need in terms of performance. They were outstanding and deserved the three points.”

Lineker was quick to add: “You beat me to it with Conor Gallagher. I thought he was exceptional.”

De Zerbi looks to be building around Gallagher, and it certainly looks as if that decision is paying off right now.

Just how good was Gallagher in Tottenham win vs Aston Villa?

The midfielder started just behind Richarlison and was able to pile pressure on the likes of Tyrone Mings and Victor Lindelof.

That allowed him to rack up a stunning 11 defensive contributions, which was the most of anyone on the pitch in B6.

He also won four ground duels and chipped in with six recoveries as he made a difference in the middle of the park for the Lilywhites.

That was only made better by his 100 per cent shot conversion rate as he opened the scoring with a long-range drive after a stunning first touch.

There was so much to appreciate about Gallagher’s performance, as it seems like Spurs have finally got their money’s worth.