Billy Gilmour is nearing a return to action for Chelsea after four months out with a torn meniscus.
And while the young Scot is under no illusions over how difficult it will be to get regular minutes in Frank Lampard's midfield, he said that he is still enjoying learning from older players every day on the training ground.
Speaking before Scotland Under-21s faced Croatia in a crucial European Championship qualifier this afternoon, the 19-year-old said his recovery has gone well since hurting his right knee in the July's Premier League win away to Crystal Palace, and he wants to use the international break to get some minutes under his belt.
This afternoon’s game did not exactly go to plan, however, as he came off the bench in the 63rd minute only to be shown a harsh red card within nine minutes for a shoulder barge – although he also showed dissent to the referee following the foul.
"It wasn't the best timing," Gilmour said. "I've been out for four months with the meniscus in my right knee but the recovery has been going well. I'm back training with the team and I've come here [with Scotland] to get some minutes hopefully."
Asked about what it is like training at Chelsea, who he joined from Glasgow Rangers in 2017, he added: "I'm enjoying it so I am. It's been a great experience, great for my development to go and play with these world class players every day. There are so many trophies in there and I'm learning every day.
"It's a good thing getting noticed for the good stuff, the right stuff. I'm just working hard to continue my form when I'm back from injury but it's going to be a hard team to get into.
"Hopefully I get more game time and experience."
Gilmour also joked about the video clip of N'Golo Kante struggling to understand his accent.
"The thing is he does actually understand me. Most of them do but they take time to understand so you need to slow down when you speak. I'm getting it - it's only been the three years down there."
