Gilmour eyes World Cup dream as Scotland prepare for Slovenia clash

On the eve of his 50th Scotland appearance, Billy Gilmour says he is "excited" to help his nation secure a win over Slovenia in Nations League Group B1, a match that could keep their World Cup hopes alive.

From Wembley debut to injury setback

Steve Clarke introduced the Ayrshire‑born midfielder shortly before the delayed Euro 2020, where he announced himself with a virtuoso display against England at Wembley. That performance cemented his reputation as the most technically gifted player in the squad and helped Scotland qualify for Euro 2024.

Four months after that high, a tackle against Curacao at Hampden in May caused ligament damage, confirmed by a scan that ruled him out of this year’s World Cup. Gilmour described it as "the lowest point in football" and recalled the car ride with Clarke when the manager offered him a place with the squad despite missing the tournament.

New role under Sebastien Pocognoli

Now 25, Gilmour has re‑established himself as a regular starter for Napoli and, thanks in part to the illness of club‑mate Scott McTominay, he is back in the Scotland midfield. New head coach Sebastien Pocognoli has encouraged him to take a more advanced position, a shift Gilmour welcomes, saying he will do his best "anywhere on the pitch".

Pocognoli says Scotland stay on track after Slovenia defeat

He also noted that the experience of watching the World Cup from the stands, after Clarke’s invitation, reminded him of the fans’ passion and the "parades and the baseball" that make representing Scotland special.

Gilmour will now line up against Slovenia on Tuesday in Skopje, hoping to add a win to the group’s tally. He stresses his focus is "hopefully a good game and a win", adding that he feels proud each time he puts on the national jersey.

Reflecting on his career, Gilmour says the ups and downs have "matured" him, but he still aims to "get on the ball technically" and influence the game higher up the pitch, as Pocognoli has asked.

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If Scotland secure the three points, they will stay in contention for a World Cup play‑off spot, keeping the dream that was briefly shattered in May very much alive.