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‘Not as good’: Gary Neville claims reported Newcastle target better than Leeds’ key man

Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images
Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images
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Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images

Gary Neville told ITV on Saturday afternoon that reported Newcastle target, Billy Gilmour, is better than Leeds United midfielder, Kalvin Phillips.

The duo were in action on Friday when England and Scotland recorded a goalless draw at Euro 2020, with the Chelsea youngster outperforming his Leeds counterpart.

The Northern Echo have reported that Newcastle are keen on bringing Gilmour to St James’ Park this summer and that Wembley performance would have surely made them take notice that bit more.

But despite Phillips having a full season under his belt with Leeds last term, and Gilmour only making five starts in Chelsea colours, Neville still thinks the Chelsea man is better on the ball.

“He came into a cup game against Liverpool, I think his first game against Chelsea, and he was brilliant that night,” said Neville.

“His tempormant is fanastic. He accepts the ball. It was a sobering experience for England because Gilmour, McGinn and McGregor were better on the ball than the England midfield players.

“Gilmour was always available. England don’t have that player. I know we have pointed towards Kalvin Phillips, but he’s not as good as on the ball or accepting the ball as Gilmour is. He’s technically, I think a little bit better.”

billy gilmour
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If Gilmour is so good, and better on the ball than Leeds’ main man, then there’s no reason why he should be loaned out this summer.

Chelsea are packed in the midfield department, but the rising Scottish star should surely see his game time increase if he’s as good as it’s made out to be.

Of course, if Thomas Tuchel opts to send him out on loan then there’s no doubt that a host of clubs will be chasing his signature.

And Mike Ashley might have a fight on his hands to secure the former Rangers academy star’s signature on a temporary basis.