The English coach is impressed with Gilmour’s talent and believes he is showing shades of Scholes, a man who was widely considered as one of the best during his playing days.
The 18-year-old was handed his Chelsea debut in August, where he came on as a late substitute in a 2-2 draw against Sheffield United.
Gilmour burst on to the scene after his back-to-back man-of-the-match performances in last month’s wins against Liverpool and Everton in the FA Cup and Premier League respectively.
The Scot was hailed by the media after his stellar displays against the Merseyside-based clubs, with Roy Keane labeling him as a top player who is capable of reaching the highest level in football.
Lampard has echoed Keane’s comments and admitted he was shocked by the former Red Devil’s adulation.
The 41-year-old told Sky Sports: “I had to put my cup of tea down to hear Roy say something nice (about Gilmour)!
“Keane was a fantastic midfield player and he probably won’t give credit unless it’s due – and it certainly was due.”
“He’s right, I heard the statements he made about Billy and I think he’s spot on. Billy should be happy with that and if he can go and follow the ideas that someone like Roy Keane says when it comes to midfield play he won’t go far wrong.”
Despite being discreet in giving his opinion, the former Derby County boss believes Gilmour is showing similarities to Scholes.
Lampard said: “Paul Scholes is obviously one of the greatest midfield players I’ve played against in the Premier League.”
“He would always pick the right pass, he had incredible range.”
“I’m not comparing him to Scholesy, no way at all, but in terms of those basics that you mentioned, then Billy certainly has them and that’s a great platform to build hopefully a fantastic career.”
Gilmour joined the Chelsea academy from Scottish Premiership side Rangers in the summer of 2017.
