Liam Delap is a target for the Republic of Ireland ahead of a possible international switch.
The Chelsea striker has represented England at multiple youth levels but has yet to be handed a chance at senior level.
Chelsea striker Liam Delap in action against Barcelona
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Chelsea's Liam Delap is being eyed up for a sensational international switchCredit: Getty
Ireland, who failed to qualify for the 2026 World Cup following a play-off defeat to Czechia, are hoping to convince the striker to switch allegiance and represent them just as father Rory did in 1998.
Rory clocked up 11 appearances for Ireland over a six-year period part-way through his 19-year career.
Legendary player is on the case
And one Ireland legend has been doing some groundwork to try to make the move happen.
Ex-Manchester United and Sunderland defender John O’Shea has contacted Delap senior over whether his son would be interested in the switch.
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“It’s in Liam’s corner, as they say. Let’s wait and see," coaching assistant O’Shea said.
Meanwhile, Ireland boss Heimir Hallgrimsson added: “It’s a decision that is still just his.
“He hasn’t played for England and it doesn’t look like he is going to the World Cup, it looks like he is far away from that.
“But again it is his decision.”
With a lack of ready-made English No.9s beyond Harry Kane, Delap may fancy his chances of being the long-term successor for the Three Lions skipper.
Although Kane is now 32, another Euros and possibly the 2030 World Cup remain in sight should he stay injury free and in good goalscoring form.
Rory Delap Stoke
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Rory Delap represented Ireland during his career and could set son Liam follow the same pathCredit: Getty
Liam Delap Chelsea
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Delap's injury woes impacted his first few months at Stamford BridgeCredit: Getty
Beyond that, there are already concerns over who might be capable of leading the line in Kane’s absence.
Delap's struggles
Delap’s club form has done little to settle the debate, having netted just twice in 32 appearances.
The striker has endured a difficult start to life at Stamford Bridge after a £30m summer switch from Ipswich Town.
His season was dealt an early blow when he suffered a hamstring injury in Chelsea’s third match of the season.
Delap was sidelined for 11 matches but made his return to action in early November in the Champions League draw at Qarabag.
However, game time has been sketchy with his last goal coming in a 2-1 defeat to Fulham in January.
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talkSPORT understands Newcastle are interested in signing Delap this summer.
The striker met with Eddie Howe before joining Chelsea before the 2024/25 season.