Billy Gilmour bolstered his claim for a Scotland call-up with another man of the match display in his first Premier League start.
The 18-year-old playmaker was sensational as Chelsea thumped Everton 4-0 at Stamford Bridge and had Manchester United legend Roy Keane purring over his “excellent performance.”
It came just five days after the Scotland U21 midfielder’s starring role in the FA Cup victory over Liverpool.
And with the Euro 2020 play-off clash against Israel less than three week’s away Gilmour’s performance won’t have gone unnoticed by Steve Clarke as he ponders his squad selection.
Gilmour completed more passes than anyone else on the park - 74 - and described his first Premier League start as a “dream come true”.
And asked how a full Scotland call-up would feel, he said: “It’s a bit mad but that would be amazing to get called-up.
“I need to just keep working hard and doing my best and hopefully get that opportunity.”
Clarke is expected to name his squad for the must-win Hampden clash against Israel next Tuesday.
And with John McGinn a major doubt having been out with a fractured ankle since December, the clamour for Gilmour to be included is growing with every game the former Rangers youngster plays.
Ex-Man United and Celtic midfielder Keane is among his army of fans after watching him closely against Liverpool and Everton.
Keane said: “We said it would be a test for him because sometimes you get the plaudits in the first game but then you have to do it week in week out.
“But he makes the game look easy. He looks forward, always swivelling and looking over his shoulder.
“He is very positive with his passing.
“He seems a nice kid and I bet he’s thinking what’s the fuss about, he makes it look very, very easy.
“I think Bill Shankly said the time to judge a player is when he has time on the ball in terms of his decision making, pace of the pass … excellent performance.”
Gilmour said: “It was tough, I played well against Liverpool but you need to do the exact same in the next game.
“You just have to work hard, play well and do your best for the team. The main thing it was a good win for the team.”
Chelsea star Oliver Giroud was also full of praise for his team mate.
He said: “He has done very well again. For someone of 18 he has a great maturity and he listens to advice. He has a nice future in front of him if he keeps going.”
