It was all eyes on Liam Delap in Chelsea’s friendly against Western Sydney Wanderers, as the striker situation needs resolving.
Liam Delap finds himself in a crowded battle for Chelsea’s primary striker role. Competing alongside Nicolas Jackson, Emmanuel Emegha, Marc Guiu, soon-to-be Danny Welbeck and Joao Pedro, he faces relentless pressure to prove he can lead the line for a top Premier League side.
His performance against Western Sydney Wanderers offered glimpses of what he brings to the pitch. Delap pressed hard, held up the ball effectively, and created space for teammates, showing a strong physical presence up front. It was a positive, but you can’t just rely on hard work – you need goals.
And with Joao Pedro bagging a brace, the pressure is firmly on.
Who was the BEST and WORST performer in Xabi Alonso’s first televised game as Chelsea boss?👀
Chelsea player ratings vs Western Sydney Wanderers
Photo by Steve Christo – Corbis/Corbis via Getty Images
Xabi Alonso praises Liam Delap after Western Sydney display
The most important thing is the opinion of Xabi Alonso, and he seems to be pleased with what he’s seeing from Liam Delap at Chelsea.
Speaking in his press conference after the 6-4 win, he had this to say.
“Liam is doing well. It was 60 minutes he had a battle against the centre-backs. He is doing well. He’s got a good desire.”
The Chelsea striker situation surrounding Liam Delap
The situation around Delap is as follows. Chelsea are open to selling the striker if a suitable offer arrives, with Nottingham Forest one of the sides interested this summer.
However, there is the opportunity to remain at Stamford Bridge. Emmanuel Emegha is not completely off the table for a loan, while Marc Guiu will be leaving and Nicolas Jackson edges closer to Aston Villa.
Emegha already has two goals to his name, but he won’t return from injury until the Premier League season starts, so the opportunity is there for Delap.
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