Chelsea star Billy Gilmour is expected to miss up to four months after undergoing a knee surgery on Friday, the blues manager Frank Lampard has confirmed.
The youngster suffered the knee injury in a 19th-minute clash with Luka Milivojevic during Chelsea’s 3-2 victory against Crystal Palace on Tuesday.
Gilmour, who has enjoyed an outstanding breakthrough season at Chelsea playing 11 first-team games, he continued the match at Selhurst Park until he was taken off for Jorginho in the 80th minute.
“Billy had an operation on his knee [Friday] morning, we estimate he will be out for between three and four months unfortunately,” Frank Lampard said.
“I am obviously very disappointed as we all are here and Billy is himself. I spoke with him yesterday at length. [We are] giving him support and being there for him.
“He is a tough boy and it will hit him hard, particularly as a younger player who has just made a breakthrough.
“He was doing so well but this is part of football, I tried to explain that to him. He should be very pleased with what he has done, the impact he has had this season.
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“His attitude will get him back as quick as he can, his character is fantastic, particularly with his age. The personality he has shown to get himself into the first team, I’m very sure he will show the same character in doing everything right with his rehab.
“He has a close knit family who will be there for him. The small bonus is that hopefully it will cover a period that is off season.”
