Billy Gilmour thought he’d be out on loan – but the Scotland prospect could never have predicted the rise he’s had at Chelsea.
The youngster had a breakthrough campaign at Chelsea last term, forcing his way into Frank Lampard’s plans and thriving at Premier League level. Overall, he has made 11 Blues appearances.
Gilmour is Scotland’s brightest talent and is enjoying life under the guidance of Lampard. His season was unfortunately cut short last term after picking up a knee injury in July.
A call-up to this month’s Scotland U21s side suggests a return to action is close for Gilmour but things could have been so different for him, by his own admission.
He has admitted that he did not expect any of the early success that has come his way in senior football. The teenager says that he expected a loan move away from Chelsea but is more than happy to thrive in London instead.
“I never thought I would be where I am just now. I thought maybe the next year I would go on loan,” he said (4LHAD) “I have always had a plan in my head about coming through the Chelsea academy, trying to get first-team experience and then getting myself in the team.
“The gaffer came in and took the team and Jody Morris and Joe Edwards, who were my youth coaches through Under 18s and 23s, were his assistants.
“I did pre-season with them, after that I was round training with them and then I got into the first-team changing room, which was massive. I was really happy and I made a couple of appearances.
“I have always said that my dream was to play in the Premier League and I got one step closer by signing for Chelsea.”