Philip Billing is only just in the door at Napoli – but he’s already learning how to run the midfield from Scott McTominay.
Towering playmaker Billing joined the Serie A leaders on loan from Bournemouth in early January but has been made to wait for his debut with a host of midfielders, including McTominay and his Tartan teammate Billy Gilmour, ahead of him in the pecking order. McTominay in particular is thriving under Antonio Conte with nine goal involvements in 20 appearances and already looks a serious contender for the Bulgarelli No.8 award, won by Lewis Ferguson last season, for best midfielder in the league.
It’s a level Billing, looking to reignite his career at 28, is striving for. And he’s learning from the best with McTominay and Franck Zambo Anguissa showing him the ropes.
“McTominay and Anguissa are both fantastic players,” he said in an interview on Italian radio. “I enjoy training with them and watching them a lot to see what they do because, obviously, they have been here longer than I have. I stick to my own playing style but also try to learn from them. They are both incredible, great profiles both physically and technically. They run a lot and also score goals.
“What has impressed me most about Serie A is the tactical aspect. It forces you to use your brain much more. Every day, we focus on tactics, and I like it, and it helps you understand the game better.
“I came here to learn and become a better player. I think (Conte) the perfect man for that. When you come from abroad, you know you must find your place, but everyone here is great. The relationship between my teammates is like that of a family. Everyone has been kind to me and tries to help me. I have only positive things to say about the group I found here. They all work hard.