Right before one of Scotland’s most important matches in their short history at the Euros, Chelsea and Scottish national team midfielder Billy Gilmour has tested positive for COVID-19. As a result the 20-year-old will self-isolate for 10 days and thus miss tomorrow’s Group D matchup against Croatia.
We can confirm that Billy Gilmour has tested positive for COVID-19.
— Scotland National Team (@ScotlandNT) June 21, 2021
Having liaised with Public Health England, Billy will now self-isolate for 10 days and therefore miss tomorrow’s UEFA EURO 2020 Group D match against Croatia at Hampden.https://t.co/lRNWvckqCK
Gilmour had a highly positive impact on the pitch for Scotland during their 0-0 draw to England, a result that has kept their chances of earning a knockout phase slot alive. His absence throws a gigantic monkey wrench into whatever plans head coach Steve Clarke had for the team following Billy’s man-of-the-match performance against the Three Lions last week.
Billy Gilmour made more recoveries than any other player and completed more passes than any other #SCO player during his time on the pitch:
— Squawka Football (@Squawka) June 18, 2021
44 passes attempted
40 passes completed
8 ball recoveries
2 tackles made
A classy full debut for the 20-year-old. pic.twitter.com/2u8VeWsWLq
There might be reason for further worries given the potential of Billy having (unwittingly) infected Scotland NT players and/or staff. Although the tabloid tone is often heavier than it should be, the risk still remains.
EXCLUSIVE: Scotland star Andy Robertson swiftly DELETES video of him playing ping-pong with Covid-positive Billy Gilmour and John McGinn last night... as Scots deny ANY close contacts in the squad
— MailOnline Sport (@MailSport) June 21, 2021
https://t.co/dUkx063zg6
In case Scotland manages to overcome Gilmour’s absence and make it to the round of 16, the 10-day self-isolation period means the young midfielder will also miss their first playoff match. But he could be available in time for the Euro quarter-finals, set to be played between July 2nd and 3rd.
Get well soon, Billy!