Billy Gilmour took centre stage at Hampden Park as Poland held Scotland to a 1-1 draw. The 20-year-old performed admirably at the heart of Steve Clarke's side, passing another test in his quest to return to the west.
Despite his misfortunes at Norwich this season, Chelsea's loanee stepped up once again on the international stage to marshal the Tartan Army's midfield. Gilmour has featured 18 times for the Canaries this season — 12 of which have been under Dean Smith, who replaced Daniel Farke in November.
Thomas Tuchel was reminded of Gilmour's ability to step up in the big games. But, the Scotsman's high level of performance has become an expectation given his mouth-watering potential.
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"Oh magnificent clearance off the line," said Sky Sports commentator Ian Crocker, as Gilmour denied Krzysztof Piatek from handing the visitors the lead. The midfielder's 'magnificent' moment to keep Scotland in the tie is more telling.
Since Tuchel replaced Frank Lampard, the west London side have made a habit of goal clearances. Whether it's a frailty in the German's tactical setup or a skill that has been drilled into the side, Chelsea's ability to forecast danger has been a factor in their success.
Thiago Silva leads the Premier League charts for the most clearances off the line (three) this season. The veteran centre-half and his cohort have also made a habit of translating their trade into the Champions League, with a notable clearance against Juventus in November.
Gilmour has little to prove with regard to his in-possession play; he can dictate possession, he's composed on the ball, can wriggle out of tight spaces and has a good range of pass. But, he has improved his out-of-possession play, and his clearance of the line for Scotland proves that.
Of course, Gilmour is far from a mediocre talent; he's one of Chelsea's most exciting prospects, but there was a reason he was sent out on loan. To gain valuable experience and plenty of game time so that he could return to Tuchel at the end of the season and stake a strong claim for first-team opportunities.
Speaking ahead of the Blues' clash with Norwich in October, Tuchel said: "I love Billy. He decided to go to have a better chance to get some minutes. We want him to perform. If you decide to go on loan, it's as simple as that – you need to be on the pitch, perform, be a top player, if you want to make it here.
"He's our player. We love him, but changing a club is a huge risk, a huge step — He just needs to show what he can do. No coach will leave the best players out. That's what he needs to prove. That Norwich is a better team with him."
Jorginho sees his contract at Stamford Bridge expire at the end of next season. Having edged closer to passing Tuchel's audition, Gilmour can pave a way into Chelsea's starting eleven. With the odds in his favour and the Italy international's agent continuing to speculate a move away, Gilmour has a strong case for a resurgence at Stamford Bridge.
