Former Scotland striker Kenny Miller has called for Chelsea youngster Billy Gilmour to be fast-tracked into the national side’s senior set-up.
Gilmour made his Blues debut as a substitute in the 2-2 draw with Sheffield United at Stamford Bridge last month.
The 18-year-old, who has represented Scotland at every age-group level from U15 to U21, has had his path to the first team at club level accelerated by Frank Lampard’s appointment as manager.
Now, Miller believes that Scotland boss Steve Clarke should follow suit, in much the same way as his England counterpart Gareth Southgate blooded fellow Chelsea starlet Callum Hudson-Odoi.
"In days gone by, people said you had to go through the proper steps before becoming a full international," Miller said. "But look at England and what they have done in the last few years.
"Hudson-Odoi started an England game before he had started a Chelsea Premier League match.
"I think we could be getting Billy Gilmour in now and there's probably a few others. I know he's been away with a few camps training and it is a huge step - and especially without first-team football - but we need to get these guys in to progress.
"England can do it. Wales have done it. Can we fast-track him? I also believe you have to have earned that right, but there are exceptions."
