Billy Gilmour has revealed that he was considering moving away from Stamford Bridge in a loan deal during the summer transfer window. The Chelsea youngster was unsure as to whether or not he would receive regular minutes prior to the start of the campaign. But, it was Frank Lampard who convinced him to stay. But, how exactly will Gilmour fit into Chelsea’s plan for both the short and long term?
What is Gilmour all about?
In order to assess how Gilmour will fit into Chelsea’s plans, it’s essential to know what he can offer on the table. The 18-year-old is primarily a central midfielder, who is advertised for his passing. Indeed, he can rotate possession effortlessly and is quite aware of his surroundings.
As a result, Gilmour often appears calm in possession even under tight pressure. Additionally, the youngster is capable of carrying the ball – making him quite effective in half-spaces. And overall, his style of play can be compared to Jorginho.
How will Gilmour benefit Chelsea this season?
It’s unlikely Gilmour will be given as many opportunities as someone like Mason Mount or Callum Hudson-Odoi. However, the Scot can be utilised as primary back-up for Jorginho, especially with both Tiemoue Bakayoko and Danny Drinkwater moving away from Stamford Bridge in the summer.
Additionally, the youngster can provide competition for the likes of Ross Barkley and Mateo Kovacic. In fairness, however, Gilmour is not someone Lampard should rely on and the youngster should, in fact, be used only as a prodigy.
Given his lack of experience, it won’t be surprising to see him falter in big matches. Lampard, therefore, could utilise him as a bit-part player in the Chelsea midfield, which will help the player gain some invaluable experience at the highest level of football.
One for the future?
Gilmour is merely a prospect for Chelsea at the moment, unlike Mount and Hudson-Odoi, as both of them have already established themselves as key members of the team.
Going forward, however, the Scot could become a key component in the Chelsea midfield provided he can maintain his development at the highest level of football. A host of young British midfielders have impressed in the Premier League, of late. It’s a list that includes the likes of Harry Winks, Declan Rice and Sean Longstaff, among many others. Gilmour, to that end, may well turn out to be the next big thing.
