Thomas Tuchel admits Billy Gilmour must prove he has the physicality to compete in the Premier League.

The Scottish midfielder, 19, has been linked with a loan departure from the club following Frank Lampard's sacking.

But new boss Tuchel insists there is no need for him to get rid of players this month, adding his positive impressions of Gilmour.

The German said: "For Billy the same in a different personal moment for him because he didn't play the biggest role like Mason did in the last weeks.

"Maybe the decision for Mason yesterday was the toughest and we spoke about this in person. For Billy I have a good impression. He is a very strategic guy. A very high level of game understanding. Very good in the first contact. Very clever in positioning.

"We see if he has the physical level. If he can compete in the centre of the field in the most physical league in the world. We will see that, but he is super quick, super fast with his feet. Super fast with his decision-making and very, very good in positioning.

"We have right now 21, 22 outfield players available, playing three competitions. There is absolutely no need that we have to get rid of players."