Gilmour was 'the difference' for Scotland with England, says Mourinho

Published on: 19 June 2021

Jose Mourinho believes Billy Gilmour was 'fantastic' in Scotland's midfield and 'made the difference' for his side in their goalless Euro 2020 draw against England at Wembley.

Steve Clarke's side remain in the hunt to qualify from Group D after keeping Gareth Southgate's men at bay on Friday evening, and may have even snatched a winner having created the better opportunities.

20-year-old midfielder Gilmour has received huge plaudits for his performance on his first senior start for his country, running the show in a man-of-the-match display alongside Callum McGregor and demonstrating doggedness in central midfield.

Speaking to talkSPORT, new Roma boss Mourinho heaped praise on the Chelsea star by insisting his willingness to get on the ball and link the defence to the attack helped Scotland to earn a result at Wembley.

'The kid Gilmour in midfield, he made the difference, Mourinho said.

'He was fantastic. He was always moving, always showing, he wanted the ball, he was turning under pressure. He linked the game much, much better.'

Scotland therefore remain in the hunt to qualify from the group despite losing their opening game to Czech Republic at Hampden Park on Monday.

Clarke's side will need a victory against Croatia in Glasgow however to stand any chance of pipping England or Czech Republic to making it to the second round, and they are yet to find the net at Euro 2020.

But Mourinho was in awe of the spirit they showed at Wembley and believes it can stand them in good stead for that crucial fixture on Tuesday.

'The two strikers worked so hard. The last action of the game is an example of their mentality,' Mourinho added of their performance against England.

'Steve Clarke organised the game tactically very well, but more importantly than that was the spirit.

'They didn't come for a football match, it was clearly Steve and his staff's job. They united the team and they were ready to fight.

'They got home with this historical result, but the door is open to qualify. They play at home to Croatia and they can qualify still.

'Credit to Scotland. If England arrives to that situation and they decide let's take the pragmatic route, it was Scotland who put them in that position.'

Source: m.allfootballapp.com

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