GEMMILL: GILMOUR’S IN SQUAD AT JUST 16 PURELY ON MERIT

BY SCOTT McDERMOTT young that even now it’s still potential we’re talking about.

“Nobody could predict whether he could continue his development so rapidly at such a big club, in a new environment. But his performances at Chelsea have consistently shown he’s been able to do that.

“We’re all in agreement he’s a real talent. He has incredible potential. By including him in this squad is our way of trying to help him, which is key for all the players.

“We’re trying to do the best for him. We recognise his potential and its our job to help him fulfil it. Billy doesn’t have a normal profile at his age because everyone up here is looking to see how he does at Chelsea.

“But he’s dealing with that expectation. He’s shown that in his performances. He’s been part of a very successful Chelsea youth team. But if you speak to people who know him – that’s the part no one had any worries about.

“He’s not just a really talented footballer on the pitch, he matches that off the pitch as well with his attitude and ability to handle the situation he’s in.”

Gilmour will compete with the likes of former Ibrox team-mate Ross McCrorie and Motherwell ace Allan Campbell for a place in Gemmill’s midfield against Togo, Doohan (Celtic), Robbie McCrorie (Rangers); Harvie (Aberdeen), Kerr (St Johnstone), Ross McCrorie (Rangers), Porteous (Hibs), Ralston (Celtic), Taylor (Kilmarnock), Wilson (Kilmarnock); Burt (Rangers), Campbell (Motherwell), Gilmour (Chelsea), Hornby (Everton), Middleton (Rangers), St Clair (Chelsea), Watt (Wolves); Burke (WBA), Johnston (Celtic), Wighton (Dundee), Wright (Aberdeen).