Lampard full of praise for teen star Gilmour
Chelsea boss Frank Lampard insists Billy Gilmour will keep his feet on the ground, despite the teen midfielder’s star turn against Liverpool.
Scotland youngster Gilmour produced a first- class performance, bossing the play as Chelsea dumped Premier League champions-elect Liverpool out of the FA Cup with a 2- 0 win on Tuesday.
Now the 18- year- old could enjoy another start in today’s clash with Everton, given Chelsea’s lengthy injury list.
The Blues could be without as many as nine regulars when the Toffees pitch up at Stamford Bridge, and Lampard would have no hesitation throwing Gilmour straight back into action.
Asked how Gilmour has been in the wake of his coming-ofage showing against Liverpool, Lamp a rd said: “The same. We had Wednesday off, so I’m sure he enjoyed it. He should do, his family were here for the game.
“Knowing Billy, even at a young age he’s a very determined young lad, he’s very smart.
“He’ll understand it was a very good game for him, but that the hard work starts now.
“I think he should quite rightly enjoy the moment, and I’m delighted for him.
“But in terms of how I’ve seen him around the place, it’s the same attitude, same training, same ethics, same quality; so all good.”
Everton will head to London led by former Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti, who steered the Blues to their maiden domestic double in 2010.
The 60- year- old is battling to push the Goodison Pa r k club back up the table, and Lampard says his former Blues boss will be afforded a warm welcome.
He said: “We all respect his period at the club. A gentleman, a fantastic manager, I loved working with him personally and he’ll get a great reception.”
Meanwhile, Ancelotti believes Dominic Calvert-lewin can become one of the best strikers in Europe.
The 22-year-old followed fellow young English prospect Mason Holgate in signing a new five- year contract with Everton on Friday on the back of a campaign that has already brought him 15 goals.
The Italian said: “Dominic has all the attributes to become one of the best strikers in England and in Europe.
“He is fast, has good skills, is strong in the air and works extremely hard for the team.
“He also has a fantastic mentality and his desire to improve has impressed me ever since I came to the club. I am very happy he has signed this new contract.”