Five Stats About Billy Gilmour’s Season So Far That Should Excite Chelsea Fans

Before the enforced break in football fixtures, Chelsea midfielder Billy Gilmour had burst onto the scene with some standout displays against the likes of Liverpool and Everton.

The 18-year-old was not fazed by being introduced to first-team football by manager Frank Lampard, having been heralded for his maturity despite his young age.

Gilmour may have only played seven senior games for the Blues, but there are certain aspects of his game that have already shone through during his brief spell in the first team.

Press the “next page” as we look at five stats about the Scottish Under 21 international’s season which should get Chelsea fans excited:

Gilmour loves to get on the ball

Since breaking into the first team, the teenager has averaged 69.37 passes per 90 minutes. Out of the likes of Jorginho, Kante, Kovacic, Barkley and Mason Mount, only Jorginho averages more (70.3).

This not only demonstrates Gilmour’s keenness to get on the ball and dictate play but also the maturity to take on a senior role in midfield despite only being 18 years of age.

He is not afraid of a challenge

Gilmour currently averages more slide tackles (0.65) per 90 than any other Chelsea midfielder, apart from Mateo Kovacic (1.89).

It demonstrates the Scottish international’s all-action style. He does not fear going into tackles and he is keen to make an impact on the game.

Gilmour has a high work rate

Putting in tackles is all well and good, but while that may get the crowd on side, there are other ways for players to help out their team defensively such as retrieving loose balls.

Gilmour’s average recoveries per 90 mins (8.07) is only bettered by Jorginho (10.94) and N’Golo Kante (10.43) showing he is prepared to roll his socks up and put in the work.

He rarely loses possession in key areas

Gilmour only averages 2.39 possession losses in his own half per game, which is a decent figure, considering the likes of Jorginho (2.87), Kovacic (3.1) and N’Golo Kante (3.87) have higher numbers.

The ability to shield the ball and protect possession before offloading it to a teammate is a key trait for a midfielder and the Scottish star has already shown his ability in that regard.

Gilmour’s creativity demonstrates his all round game

Only Ross Barkley (0.6) has made more key passes per 90 minutes than the teenager (0.45). Although he has only played a handful of senior games, it’s clear that Gilmour’s passing ability is a key weapon in his game.

He does, however, have some way to go before he can reach Jorginho’s through ball average of 2.5 per game. The youngster is currently averaging 1.64 per 90.

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