Thomas Tuchel issues update on potential Billy Gilmour recall after midfielder left out for Norwich

Billy Gilmour starved of opportunites at Carrow Road

Chelsea’s Billy Gilmour was expected to play a huge part for Norwich City when he joined the Canaries on loan for the season.

Having lost Oliver Skipp when his loan ended at the end of the 2020-21 season, Daniel Farke’s side needed another midfielder to replace him, and Gilmour was set to be that man.

However, it has not panned out that way, with Gilmour not having played a game for Norwich in the Premier League since the middle of September, where he played 90 minutes against Watford.

Gilmour hasn’t played a league game for Norwich since September 18th…It’s November tomorrow…#CFC

— CFCDaily (@CFCDaily) October 31, 2021

As such, there is understandable concern about where his future lies, and how best to control his development.

Tuchel reveals his plans for Gilmour’s future

Speaking ahead of his side’s clash with Malmo in the Champions League, Tuchel was quizzed on the future of the Scot, and the potential of recalling him in January, with the club having a break clause inserted into the loan.

Tuchel seemed coy on the idea, revealing that:

“We will take the decision in January. That’s when decisions have to be made, not now.

“I spoke with Daniel about it and I was happy to meet with Billy around the (Norwich) match.

“The things were clear when we decided together (in the summer), that he was looking for more minutes and game time at another club. The challenge was clear that he has to fight his way through. This is where it is right now.”

However, the fact that Gilmour cannot get into bottom side Norwich’s starting side does not seem to faze Tuchel, who continued:

“Things are not going as he maybe wishes and what we all wish for. But it is not the moment to give solutions and cancel a whole project.”

“Sometimes these weeks and months arrive where the situation seems to be stuck or is not going the right way. You have to hang in there, show your quality and make sure you help your team, no matter where it is. That sharpens your character and it will be a big chapter in your career. That’s the same for Billy.”