Billy Gilmour: Starting for Scotland against Germany would be 'stuff of dreams'

Billy Gilmour says starting for Scotland against Germany in the Allianz Arena would be “the stuff of dreams” and believes he’s matured as a player since starring against England at the last finals.

The midfielder sprang to prominence after being handed his first competitive start against England at Wembley during Euro 2020, and has been a Scotland regular since.

Having proven himself in that environment, the 23-year-old says he’s developed since, and is now ready for the tests another international tournament will throw at him.

“I’ve matured a lot,” Gilmour said. “I was a young kid at the last Euros and would say I’m not any more. I’ve grown up a bit.

“It’s all part of the journey and I’ve really enjoyed it. Looking back, the game against England (at the last Euros) was my first competitive game and was a good game for us all.

“That’s the tests you’re wanting as a footballer so to be at this stage now, the group is tough but we want to test ourselves and see how far we can go.”

Competition for a place in Steve Clarke’s side is fierce, with the midfield to be picked from a combination of Gilmour, Scott McTominay, John McGinn, Callum McGregor, Kenny McLean, Stuart Armstrong and Ryan Jack.

With 27 caps already under his belt, Gilmour is desperate to add more over the next few weeks and says that earning his 28th in the opening game in Munich would be special.

“It’s up to the manager,” he said. “Of course I want to start and play every game possible.

“If I did get the opportunity to walk out at the opening game at the Euros it would be amazing, it’s the stuff of dreams really.”

If Gilmour does get the nod to start against Germany, he’ll go toe to toe with veteran midfielder Toni Kroos, someone he’s admired from afar throughout his career.

“I think he’s unbelievable,” Gilmour said. “Just to watch on TV he’s unbelievable, he makes the simple things 100% perfect.

“If I do get the opportunity I’ll be excited to test myself against one of the best midfielders in the world, it would be great.

“I think we all know it’s going to be an amazing night, the atmosphere is going to be incredible. I think it’s for us to compose ourselves straight away, try and get used to the atmosphere as soon as possible.”