Manchester United teenager Tyler Fletcher has been called up to Scotland's World Cup squad as a replacement for the injured Billy Gilmour. The Napoli midfielder suffered a knee injury during a pre-tournament friendly against Curacao on Saturday, ruling him out of the tournament.
Gilmour's Injury Blow
Scotland won the match 4-1 at Hampden Park, but the victory was overshadowed by Gilmour's injury. The 24-year-old started the game but was forced off just before half-time. It was later confirmed that he would not be fit enough to play at the World Cup. The Scotland team's official X account posted: 'We regret to announce that the knee injury sustained by Billy Gilmour in today's win over Curaçao will rule him out of participation in @FIFAWorldCup. We're all with you, Billy.'
Scotland manager Steve Clarke expressed his devastation for Gilmour, saying: 'I am devastated for Billy because he has been an integral part of our World Cup qualifying campaign. The timing of this injury is so, so cruel, and we all feel for him.'
Tyler Fletcher's Rise
Clarke had mentioned several players on standby, including Connor Barron, Andy Irving, and Lennon Miller, but singled out Tyler Fletcher as being closer to the squad after impressing in training. Fletcher, 19, made his senior debut for Scotland in the same match, coming on at half-time and earning praise from Clarke.
On Sunday morning, it was confirmed that Fletcher had received the call-up. The son of former Manchester United midfielder Darren Fletcher, Tyler was born in Manchester and initially represented England at Under-16 level before switching allegiance to Scotland. He has progressed through the youth ranks to the Under-21s and now the senior team. Despite having only two senior appearances for Manchester United, he has made the most of his time with the Scotland squad.
Support for Gilmour
Gilmour's Napoli teammate Scott McTominay offered his support on social media, writing: 'Absolutely devastated for you brother, football is a cruel game and you don't deserve this, keep your head up. The players, staff and country love you.'
Clarke added: 'He knows what we all think of him as a footballer and a person, and while no words will give him any comfort, I am certain Billy will have many major tournaments ahead of him in the future.'
