Former Premier League players are urging an investigation into Gallagher for purported racism.

Retired Nigerian footballers who previously graced the English Premier League have called upon the English FA to investigate allegations of racism against Chelsea’s Conor Gallagher. This request stems from an incident where Gallagher appeared to disregard a young black boy’s attempt for a high five in the tunnel before Chelsea’s match against Burnley at Stamford Bridge.

Despite Burnley managing to secure a 2-2 draw against Chelsea with ten men, the frustration was compounded by videos circulating of the tunnel incident after the game. In the footage, Gallagher is seen passing by a young black boy extending his hand for a high five, opting instead to tap his shoulders before turning to acknowledge a white boy behind him.

Former Super Eagles defender Ifeanyi Udeze, who represented West Bromwich Albion in 2003, emphasized the necessity for Gallagher to publicly apologize to the boy, denouncing the incident as a clear case of racism. Udeze suggested that Gallagher should invite the boy to a Chelsea game, present him with a jersey, introduce him to the players, and ensure his happiness. He stressed that racism has no place in football and urged the FA to take action.

Sam Sodje, who played for Reading in the Premier League, echoed the sentiment, urging the FA to thoroughly investigate the matter. While acknowledging the need for facts, Sodje emphasized the seriousness of racism and called for decisive action to eradicate it from the sport.