England boss Thomas Tuchel has been discussing why Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap wasn't included in his latest squad. (Image: PA)
England boss Thomas Tuchel has been discussing why Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap wasn't included in his latest squad. (Image: PA)
England boss Thomas Tuchel says Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap needs to fight for a place in his squad at next summer's World Cup.
Delap has a host of Premier League clubs ready to activate his £30m relegation release clause after an impressive 12-goal debut season in the top flight, with the Blues having given him permission to speak to Manchester United this week.
He's not been included in Tuchel's latest Three Lions group though and instead will feature in the European Under-21 Championships this summer.
With Harry Kane, Ollie Watkins and Ivan Toney the strikers picked for next month's matches against Andorra and Senegal, Tuchel was asked if Delap was next in line.
“He needs to show and prove it," replied the German.
“It doesn't help if we talk endlessly about him. We know his quality, we see his quality, but the fact is, he went down with Ipswich.
"He needs to find now, maybe, a chance to still compete in the Premier League. If he does that, he needs to fight for his place. If he has his place and if he scores, the door will always be open. Why not? There’s still a year to go.
“He's clearly on our radar and we will never hold someone back because of age, not because he's too old or not because he's too young.
“He needs to show up now for the U21s, take it step by step.
“He's very clear when you speak to him, nice guy, good lad, very focused and he has all the chances."