Former Chelsea star Joe Cole has made a very interesting comparison between Liam Delap and Wayne Rooney.
Delap has a long way to go before he reaches Rooney’s level. The 22-year-old got his big move to Chelsea in the summer, but he is yet to score a goal in the Premier League for them.
However, that has largely been down to a two-month injury. A red card that Delap picked up last month, which resulted in him missing Chelsea’s 1-0 win against Tottenham Hotspur, has not helped either.
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Whatever the case, Cole still thinks that the English youngster and Rooney have something in common.
Manchester United forward Wayne Rooney complaining to referee
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Joe Cole thinks Liam Delap plays on the edge like Wayne Rooney
During his career, Cole played against Rooney and also alongside the Manchester United and England legend. According to Cole, he often played on the edge and Delap does the very same thing.
Speaking to Football365, the retired attacker said: “Rooney played on that line, and obviously overstepped it at times. He would admit that. But Rooney was such a genius. You couldn’t leave him out. He was the best player in the country for 10 years, arguably one of the best players we’ve ever produced, maybe the best player we’ve ever produced.
“But again, he played on the edge, and Liam plays on the edge. Liam will have to learn to taper it a little bit and that’s what you get when you buy young players.”
Delap cannot afford to make any more serious mistakes. The ex-Ipswich Town star has not been at Stamford Bridge for long, but he is already under pressure.
Chelsea have signed Emanuel Emegha, who is set to arrive in west London in 2026, and also have an interest in Atletico Madrid’s Julian Alvarez.
The Chelsea Chronicle understands that Chelsea are watching Alvarez closely ahead of next summer’s transfer window. A repeat of what happened at Molineux, and Delap could find himself in trouble.
Chelsea striker Liam Delap on the move
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Liam Delap’s fiery side could cost Chelsea this season
If Delap cannot bring things down a notch, do not be surprised to see the young forward pick up more red cards in the future, which could cause some serious damage.
Chelsea have had a discipline problem this season. They have already received six red cards if you include Enzo Maresca’s against Liverpool. Rival clubs could play on that.
Last term, Delap was shown 15 yellow cards. That is way too many for a single player, let alone a forward. It will not be long before others pick up on that, if they have not already, and target Delap.
Red cards have already cost Chelsea in defeats to Manchester United and Brighton & Hove Albion. If Delap or anyone else struggles to stay on the pitch, similar losses could await Maresca’s side.