“I took the chance” – Chelsea starlet keen to fight for his place in the team after staying put

Billy Gilmour keen to fight and earn his spot at Chelsea

Speaking to Four Lads has a Dream Podcast (h/t The Daily Mail), Chelsea youngster Billy Gilmour has said he was expecting to leave the club on loan this summer.

Despite the busy summer we had, Gilmour retains hope of making it at the club. If he performs as he did prior to the injury, he will be in with a reasonable shout.

Just 19, Gilmour has made 11 first-team appearances for the club. While he admits that the success came earlier than expected, he has given a fine account of himself.

“I never thought I would be where I am just now. I thought maybe the next year I would go on loan.”

N’Golo Kante is fit while Jorginho back in contention. Mason Mount is also set to play centrally, while Mateo Kovacic is excellent on his day. Having to compete with this array of stars is not an easy job.

Despite the challenge presented, Gilmour is focused on the task ahead. He was aiming to progress through the youth ranks, eventually making his first-team bow.

“I have always had a plan in my head about coming through the Chelsea academy, trying to get first-team experience and then getting myself in the team.”

Having joined the club from Scottish side Rangers, Gilmour has silenced the critics who downplayed his move to London.

The player to his credit has worked hard and proved his talent on the pitch. He compared the opportunity to move to Chelsea a dream come true. Gilmour has taken full advantage of the chance afforded to him.

“I took the chance, I worked hard and I came down here and believed in myself and my own ability to go to the top and play against these top players.”

More Chelsea News

• Rio Ferdinand names Hakim Ziyech as the top Chelsea summer signing
• Timo Werner believes Chelsea teammate Kai Havertz will get even better
• Chelsea hero Michael Essien surprised by Frank Lampard entry into management

Gilmour has not featured for Chelsea since injuring his knee at Selhurst Park in July. He is keen to get back to action and cannot wait to return.

The Blues have a smattering of young players who have come through their academy. Gilmour now looks set to return to their ranks.

He nutmegged Timo Werner on his return to Chelsea training. Clearly, Gilmour has what it takes to face the bull head-on.