Billy Gilmour upbeat after World Cup blow, enjoys Miami Marlins moment
September 29, 2026 12:10
Rather than dwell on the setback, the Napoli midfielder spent time in the United States with family and even made a guest appearance at a Miami Marlins game, where he threw the ceremonial first pitch. "I was nervous," Gilmour told BBC Scotland. "I was just so happy it wasn't a crap throw, or it was bouncing. It was some experience."
WHAT HAPPENED
Gilmour suffered the knee injury in the Hampden friendly against Curaçao and did not travel with Scotland to the World Cup. He says the immediate aftermath was difficult but that getting away with family helped him switch off and support the team as a fan.
He was still in Miami when Steve Clarke resigned as Scotland head coach; Gilmour has acknowledged owing much to Clarke after being given his debut, according to BBC Sport.
BACK WITH THE SQUAD
Gilmour returned to the national setup and caught the eye during Scotland’s 0-0 draw in Slovenia, particularly in a stronger second-half showing. Often deployed as a deep-lying midfielder, he played with a different dynamic in McTominay’s absence; the Manchester United midfielder is recovering from a heart procedure, the BBC reports.
Gilmour, 25, says he enjoys playing higher up the pitch and welcomes the responsibility he now has among a group with many younger faces. He added that he would be proud to captain his country one day but remains respectful of current captain Andy Robertson.
WHAT HAPPENS NEXT
Gilmour is set to feature for Scotland at Hampden on Tuesday against Switzerland, live on the BBC.