Liam Delap, Enzo Maresca, Howard Webb, Chelsea
Credit: Hasan Karim - Breaking Media / Imago
Keith Hackett
Mon 16 June 2025 16:00, UK
Keith Hackett believes the PGMOL could hold talks with Enzo Maresca and Liam Delap after raising concerns over the new Chelsea striker.
The former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA official exclusively told Football Insider that managers can often play a huge role in a player’s behaviour, which could be vital for the 22-year-old signing.
During his first full season in the Premier League with Ipswich Town, the Man City academy graduate received 12 yellow cards in 37 matches, prompting questions over his disciplinary record.
Delap could be set for his Chelsea debut against LAFC at the Club World Cup on Monday, 16 June, and Maresca will be given a chance to see his playing style up close once again.
Liam Delap Ipswich Town
Chelsea signed Liam Delap from Ipswich Town. (Credit Imago)
Liam Delap concerns raised for Chelsea
Despite his ability to pick up yellow cards, Delap impressed immensely as the Tractor Boys were relegated back to the Championship, notching 12 goals and two assists in the top division.
His arrival has called Nicolas Jackson’s future at Stamford Bridge into question as well, though the Senegal international is open to fighting for his spot in the starting lineup next season.
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Both strikers are known for their bullish nature, often lunging into heavy tackles and throwing their weight around, and Hackett believes Maresca can help bring some of that out of Delap’s game.
Liam Delap, Ipswich
Liam Delap’s 2024/25 Premier League stats. (Credit: Imago)
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Speaking exclusively to Football Insider about possible talks with Delap, the former referee said: “A manager has scope in pre-season to have a referee in, with the referees coach, an administrator if you will, to have a chat with the players.
“When you have a situation where you adopt a player, the manager can have such a major influence. Back in the day, if players questioned the decisions being made, Brian Clough would be on their case.
Keith Hackett
Keith Hackett expects talks to be held with Liam Delap this summer.
*“The manager can influence how a player behaves. What you want from a player, while you may want a bit of strength, what you really want is that technical competence to come out ahead of any violence.*“
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