Scots have to go with gifted Gilmour against Israel

BILLY GILMOUR should go straight into the starting XI when Scotland face Israel, pandemic plans notwithstanding, at Hampden in 15 days’ time. For reasons that might be obvious to even the most cautious of careful souls. Let’s start by actually agreeing that any 18-year-old needs to be eased gently into international football. But think on this. Facing the mighty Israelis on home turf may just represent the ideal opportunity to get the easing-in process over and done with. Never mind waiting for a conveniently timed friendly against minnows of dubious standing. Forget about keeping this rising star consigned to the Under-21s until he is called up for some meaningless qualifier at the dog end of another failed campaign. Blood him in a game that Scotland should be able to win with something to spare. Get him up to speed. Give him a good hour to see what it’s all about, with the proviso that he can be subbed at the first sign of being overwhelmed. Above all, trust in Gilmour’s reputation as a fast learner to ensure that, come the play-off final against Norway or Serbia, he’ll be ready to at least make a truly telling — potentially match-winning — contribution from the bench. The alternative, letting Chelsea’s rising star (left) hang around the squad to get ten or 20 minutes here and there, just feels like the wrong move for a player of obvious talent and no little ambition. The youngster has already declared his intent to become the best midfielder in the world. That kind of gallus self-belief is just what the country needs. The understanding is that, despite being named in Scot Gemmill’s Under-21 squad yesterday, Gilmour may still be promoted to the seniors by Steve Clarke in time for those play-offs. While there is always a danger in trying to apply logic to football, it makes too much sense for Clarke not to take up that option. And give Gilmour the kind of experience — winning a meaningful game in front of a packed Hampden – that can only be good for both player and country.