Frank Lampard has been full of praise for Chelsea wonderkid Billy Gilmour and has hinted that he could play some part in the first team squad this season.
The 18-year-old was impressive in the first match against Bohemians, and then outshome Tiemoue Bakayoko in midfield during the second half of the match against St Patrick's.
Despite being just 18, the Scotland U21 international has really caught the eye of the Blues boss and the Chelsea fans, with some in the terraces of Richmond Park in Dublin singing 'there's only one Billly Gilmour'.
The usual next step for the youngsters is to go out on loan and play senior football, which might still be the case for the young Scot.
However, with a transfer ban this summer, Lampard is looking to use some of the younger players at his disposal to fill out the squad.
And while many young players have impressed over the course of the week in Ireland, Gilmour in particular has got a lot of praise.
"The younger players now have a target: can you prove it that pre-season you are good enough to threaten the team," Lampard said.
"Tammy [Abraham] did well with his energy and Michy [Batshuayi] was really good. It is the stuff I want.
"Mason [Mount] showed what I saw at Derby last season, him and Ross [Barkley].
"Also Billy Gilmour in the second half. He has had a brilliant trip and has shown real personality in this trip. I just hope Billy keeps pushing on with that this season."
"A lot has been made of the younger players we have here and they need to know the door is open if they impress.
"We need to have competition within the squad. The academy has been first class and we want some of them to show they can get a place in the team."
