Billy Gilmour is getting back to full fitness following time in the Chelsea treatment room – and messages from Liverpool and Scotland star Andy Robertson helped the Scotland starlet.
Gilmour is thought to be Scotland’s next big thing following his breakthrough at Chelsea last season. He made 11 appearances before a torn meniscus ended his season early in July.
Now back in the senior fold following his injury, he’s revealed messages from Liverpool, courtesy of Scotland captain Andy Robertson (UMM): “I have played against Andy Robertson at Stamford Bridge.
“He spoke to me after the game to say well done and stuff. He’s been texting me as well just to make sure I was ok through my injury.”
There are players past and present Gilmour looks up to. Xavi and Iniesta are previous players who made an impression on the Chelsea teenager, current teammate N’Golo Kante an influence day-to-day.
“When watching Xavi and Iniesta, they were amazing,” said Gilmour. “They kept the ball so well, passing, moving, one touch, two touch. My dad drilled that into me.
“Kante’s a great player, trains so well. He is always working hard. He’s quiet, he keeps himself to himself. You don’t hear from him after training!”
Having a manager in Frank Lampard who played the same position as Gilmour has been a positive for the young Scotsman. But he’s hoping the Chelsea boss doesn’t take his place in the team after training exploits.
“He’s joined in training a few times,” explained Gilmour. “He’s still got it. Then he puts me out a position! Nah, but he’s still got it, he joins in on the rondos sometimes and he’s still sharp.”