Tyler Fletcher called up to replace injured Billy Gilmour | OneFootball

Scotland have been forced into a late change to their World Cup squad after Billy Gilmour was ruled out through injury, with teenage Manchester United midfielder Tyler Fletcher stepping in as his replacement.

Gilmour picked up a knee injury during Scotland’s 4-1 friendly win over Curaçao at Hampden Park and was withdrawn from Steve Clarke’s 26-man squad shortly after the match. The Napoli midfielder had been expected to play a key role in Scotland’s tournament plans, making his absence a significant setback ahead of their trip to the United States.

In his place comes 19-year-old Fletcher, who only made his senior international debut earlier the same evening, coming on at half-time in the friendly victory. Remarkably, that brief appearance now means he has earned a shock World Cup call-up just days after his first cap.

Fletcher, the son of former Manchester United and Scotland midfielder Darren Fletcher, has progressed quickly through the ranks. His twin brother Jack has opted to represent England at international level, highlighting the split pathways within the family.

The youngster has spent most of his club career in United’s academy system, with limited senior minutes to date, but has now been thrust onto the world stage in a major tournament squad.

Scotland, who will travel to the United States ahead of their Group C fixtures against Bolivia, Haiti and Morocco, are preparing for their first World Cup appearance since 1998.