Former Aberdeen boss Derek McInnes has told how he launched an audacious bid to sign Chelsea and Scotland wonderkid Billy Gilmour – but was quickly shut down by then Chelsea coach Jody Morris.
Gilmour is hoping to be involved tomorrow when Scotland kick off their Euro 2020 campaign against the Czech Republic and McInnes has watched as Gilmour rose through the ranks at Rangers and Chelsea over the last five years.
Despite only turning 20 on Friday, Gilmour has already got a Champions League medal tucked away and McInnes was in regular contact with Morris over the talented youngster.
“I don’t know the boy but I have watched him play through the youth levels against our teams at Aberdeen and I have had good reports from former teammates and ex-players of mine since he moved south from Rangers. Wee Jody Morris, in particular, just loves Billy,” McInnes told the Mail on Sunday. “He used to rave about him when he was part of Frank Lampard’s coaching staff at Stamford Bridge.
“Midway through last season I called Jody up and asked him about the chances of bringing Billy up to Pittodrie on loan. My request was quickly shut down. Jody just didn’t think it was possible and you can understand why!
“He has been trusted to play in big games by both Frank and Thomas Tuchel and now he has a Champions League winner’s medal to his name. Not bad for a kid who celebrated his 20th birthday on Friday.”
Scotland’s great hope at Euro 2020
Despite there still being uncertainty overwhether Steve Clarke will even name Gilmour in his starting XI at Hampden tomorrow, Gilmour is already seen by many as Scotland’s great hope at Euro 2020.
The Chelsea midfielder’s first couple of appearances for the senior side have fans calling for him to be thrust into the starting XI against the Czechs.
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