Sir Alex Ferguson had his say about Chelsea teenager Billy Gilmour and insisted that the midfielder is an “emerging” player for Scotland despite his injury spell at the start of this season.
Having made his debut under Frank Lampard last season, Gilmour has since established himself as a member of the senior squad — and he is only 19.
The midfielder has not been involved a lot since Thomas Tuchel took over, with only two FA Cup appearances under the new manager.
But his performances suggest that it will not be long until he is ready to challenge the more senior players.
The former Rangers academy player has even caught Sir Alex’s attention.
“He’s another one that’s emerging,” the former Manchester United boss told Scotland national team’s YouTube channel about Gilmour.
“I saw him play for Chelsea towards the start of the season and he did well.
“He got an injury that held him back a bit, but he is an emerging player there’s no doubt about that.
“It’s good to see players like him coming through and the quality of players in England.
“We are blessed with some good young players coming through.”
Chronicle view
As things stand, Tuchel has admitted that he sees Gilmour as a fourth-choice midfielder.
The young midfielder will have plenty to learn from the likes of N’Golo Kante, Jorginho, and Mateo Kovacic in training, but a summer loan exit could be on the cards given the situation.
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