Liam Delap Brings Grit and Ambition to Chelsea’s Frontline
Liam Delap is ready to make his mark at Chelsea after securing a £30 million move from Ipswich Town. The 22-year-old striker believes he can not only elevate the Blues’ attack but also push his way into England’s World Cup squad if he seizes this golden opportunity.
In an exclusive interview with the Mail Online, Delap opened up about his aggressive playing style, his long-term ambitions, and the bold decision to don Chelsea’s iconic No. 9 shirt—a number that has haunted many of its previous wearers.
Old-School Aggression Meets Modern Ambition
Delap, who turned down interest from heavyweights like Manchester United and Newcastle, prides himself on his old-school approach to the game. “Maybe I’m a bit old-fashioned, but that’s just how I play. I love the physical battles,” he said. “I’ve always had that edge since I was a kid, and I’m not about to change my mindset. You just have to stay on the right side of it.”
His combative style was instrumental in Ipswich’s return to the Premier League, though it also earned him more yellow cards than any other player in the division last season. “It was my first season in the Premier League, and VAR was new to me,” he admitted. “But I’ve learned to control my emotions better now.”
Delap’s resilience was put to the test when he played through the pain of broken ribs during the final stretch of the season. The injury, sustained just before Ipswich’s 2-2 draw with Chelsea in April, didn’t stop him from giving his all on the pitch. “It was painful for a few weeks, but I got through it,” he revealed. “People say there aren’t many old-school strikers left, but that’s my game, and I love it.”
Embracing the No. 9 Curse at Chelsea
Despite the infamous “curse” associated with Chelsea’s No. 9 shirt, Delap remains unfazed. “It’s just a number to me,” he said. “Wayne Rooney wore it, and Cristiano Ronaldo was my idol growing up. There’s no pressure—I’m here to write my own story.”
The striker’s decision to join Chelsea was influenced by his reunion with Enzo Maresca, whom he worked under during his time in Manchester City’s youth academy. “I know how he plays, and I’ve thrived in this system before,” Delap explained. “I’m familiar with many of the players here, and the club’s vision for the future really excites me.”
Eyes on the Prize: England’s World Cup Squad
Delap acknowledged his disappointment at missing out on the U21 Euros after joining Chelsea just before the Club World Cup. However, his sights are firmly set on the senior stage. “If I’m playing well, it gives me a chance to represent England,” he said. “Playing for my country has been a dream of mine since I was six or seven years old.”
Chelsea fans will be hoping Delap’s grit, determination, and raw talent can help propel the club back to the top of English football. Meanwhile, the striker is focused on making the most of his opportunity—one goal, one battle, and one game at a time.
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