Gallagher began playing at Solihull Rugby Club at the age of five, going on to play for the Birmingham Bees’ first team by the age of 18.
He continued his career with his Polytechnic team at Sheffield Hallam, where he won the British Polytechnic Cup twice, and Nottingham Rugby Club, playing in the Championship at the age of 20.
He then signed for Coventry RFC in 1996, playing more than 100 games for the team before leaving in 2001 – before concluding his rugby career at Birmingham and Solihull. He retired in 2003.
His former clubs paid tribute after his death, with Birmingham and Solihull RFC saying they were “deeply saddened” by the news.
A tribute said: “Matt was a valued member of the B&S family and rugby more widely and will be remembered fondly by teammates, friends, and all who knew him around the club.
“His courage and determination in the face of motor neurone disease inspired many.”