Chelsea midfielder Billy Gilmour has claimed he is hoping to be back in action after the next international break later this month.

The 19-year-old has not played for the Blues since the 3-2 win over Crystal Palace back in July, with the teenager having to undergo an operation to repair the meniscus in his knee. Gilmour says he can’t wait to be back in contention for first-team games:

“This was my first long-term injury and hopefully the last. Even the physios would speak to me every day and they would help me get back as quickly as possible. Hopefully, when I come back after the international break I can start to kick on again, get over my injury and start playing games for the team. I can’t wait.”

Chelsea’s first match after the international fixtures is against Newcastle United at St James’ Park on Saturday 21st November. Gilmour is unlikely to start the game but he could well be given a place in the matchday squad.

The Scotland Under 21 international had already moved ahead of vice-captain Jorginho in the pecking order following the restart back in June and it will be interesting to see whether manager Frank Lampard puts him straight back into the team when he is fully fit again.