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‘Hope Tuchel is watching’: Some Chelsea fans in awe of 19-year-old who starred in U23s game

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Billy Gilmour grabbed the attention of Chelsea supporters after his dazzled for the U23s side against Leicester City last night.

Although the Blues were held 1-1 by a ten-man Foxes side, Gilmour showed more than enough quality to warrant his re-inclusion into the first team.

He played his part in Chelsea’s goal and could have got a couple himself if he’d found his shooting boots.

Gilmour dictated the tempo in midfield all night long and deserved to be in the winning corner.

Here’s how Chelsea fans reacted to their Scottish superstar.

Thomas Tuchel may not have got the chance to watch Gilmour in full flight on the night but he is certainly already aware of his quality.

The Blues boss previously described him as a ‘strategic guy’ who has ‘a very high level of game understanding’.

This glowing review unfortunately hasn’t resulted in regular minutes for Gilmour under Tuchel.

His only appearance for the German was in the FA Cup win against Barnsley last month.

Barnsley v Chelsea: The Emirates FA Cup Fifth Round
Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images

The 19-year-old did travel to Bucharest for the Blues Champions League tie against Atletico Madrid.

Including him in matchday squads is not the issue for Tuchel. Finding him a role in the starting XI has been the problem.

Mateo Kovacic simply cannot be dislodged based on current form and Gilmour is unlikely to be selected ahead of N’Golo Kante or Jorginho.

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I don’t doubt the young Scot will be given his chance by Tuchel.

He’s very much built in the mould of Marco Verratti, a player loved by Chelsea’s manager when he was in charge at Paris Saint Germain.

Like so many who’s come before him, Gilmour may just have to patient for his opening.

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