England legend Gary Lineker believes Liam Delap has the ability to “score goals” on a regular basis for Chelsea.
The 22-year-old found the back of the net for the first time in the Premier League since his £30m move from Ipswich Town during the 2-1 defeat to Fulham. It has taken him 12 games to get off the mark, but Lineker is predicting that he could become prolific for the Blues if he is given regular starting opportunities by new head coach Liam Rosenior:
“Delap obviously scored [against Fulham]. Missed a chance just before he scored the goal. I think there’s something in him. He’s got to prove it yet. He’s got to stay fit. But I like his movement. I like the way he tries to get behind.”
“I think he will score goals if he stays fit and strong. I’d love to see him get a real run of games, just to give him the opportunity.”
Delap has struggled for momentum in his 1st season
As Lineker mentions, the forward has had his fair share of fitness problems. He was sidelined for the best part of two months with a hamstring injury earlier this campaign, while he also had a briefer spell on the sidelines with a dislocated shoulder.
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It should be pointed out, though, that when fit, Delap has been given plenty of minutes, having started 8 league games in total.
It’s a fresh start for the whole Chelsea squad
With Rosenior now in the dugout, it means that every player will be given the chance to stake a claim for a place in the first eleven.
Delap, like the rest of his teammates, will have to catch the eye in training and make an impression when given opportunities over the coming weeks.
Read more about the Chelsea First Team Squad for 2025/26 here