Billy aims to use Ampadu as an inspiration
Billy Gilmour wants to use Chelsea and Wales team-mate Ethan Ampadu as an inspiration for the future as his career continues to progress at Stamford Bridge.
The former Rangers midfielder was on Scotland Under-21s duty this week as Scot Gemmill’s side produced a superb 2-1 win in the Netherlands. Scotland still have a chance of reaching the Euro Finals in Italy and San Marino next year for the first time since 1996, with two games left in the group against Ukraine and England.
Gilmour plays alongside the latest Welsh sensation Ampadu, who starred in their recent win against Ireland and who made his international debut as a 16-year-old.
And the 17-year-old is desperate to follow in hirsute stopper Ampadu’s footsteps after continuing to learn from the likes of Cesc Frabregas and Jorginho.
He said: “Ethan and I joined at the same time. I get on well with him and we go out some nights and go for food. He’s a good boy and he’s done really well for himself. He’s a top defender.
“When I see him and Callum Hudsonodoi get their chances, it gives you hope as we are similar ages. I will work really hard to try and do that, too. When Ethan went into the first team he did really well and he kept his standards high. It’s a case of just trying to work hard.
“But I don’t think I will be getting my hair like him – I think he should get it cut. When we go out people call him David Luiz! He does get a couple of shouts and he turns round and people realise it’s Ethan! He always gets noticed for his barnet so he should keep it just for that. But he needs it changed – it’s terrible.
“I keep in contact with Ethan. I texted him after the Ireland game to say well done, although I think he gave away the penalty against Denmark so I will give him stick for that.
“As for inspiration, when you see Cesc Fabregas play, he is unbelievable, but Jorginho has come in and he’s different class, he doesn’t lose the ball. A lot of our players just watch him and when you look at his stats he just doesn’t lose the ball. He’s a good player.
“I’d play anywhere in midfield, I like going box-to-box. But I do like being a sitting midfielder and trying to control the game. That’s something Jorginho has done very well.”