Billy Gilmour has what it takes to succeed in England, according to Scotland Under-21 boss Scot Gemmill.
The talented Chelsea youngster has been linked with a move to Nottingham Forest and Leeds United when the transfer window opens in January.
And Gemmill, who knows the midfielder well from their time together at international level with the Tartan Army, has no doubt he could make the step up, having already been handed his first team debut by Frank Lampard in the Carabao Cup earlier this season after moving south of the border.
“Absolutely, 100 percent,” ex-Forest star Gemmill told the Daily Record.
“With my involvement with Billy, there is no question over his emotional intelligence and his attitude.
“He wouldn’t be where he is today if that was in any way questionable.
“He’s ready but he has to continue to push and push as that’s really all he can do right now.
“We know how ambitious Billy is, we know how focused he is, we know how talented he is."
The 18-year-old started in the 7-1 win over Grimsby at Stamford Bridge, after coming off the bench for the Blues in their 2-2 Premier League draw with Sheffield United, as Lampard looks to give youth a chance in his first season as boss.
“It’s great Chelsea are giving him that opportunity and we will continue to give him the chance at this level," said Gemmill.
“I’m sure Frank and his staff will have a plan for Billy.
“He’s very meticulous and he will have a plan as well.
“Billy’s very mature for his age and knows exactly what he wants to do.
“He has shown that when we have given him the opportunities and he has rewarded us with some big performances.”
