Liam Delap, the 21-year-old English striker currently lighting up the Premier League with Ipswich Town, has been making waves this season. With six goals in his first fifteen games, Delap's performances have earned him widespread attention from fans and clubs alike. One of those clubs, reportedly keeping close tabs on him, is Chelsea. But what makes Delap so special, and why would the Blues consider adding him to their ranks?
This article dives into Delap's strengths, areas for development, and why he might fit into Chelsea's plans under Enzo Maresca.
A Natural Finisher
Delap has displayed a knack for finishing, converting opportunities with precision and confidence. While consistency over the long term remains a question for any young striker, his current form in the Premier League suggests a reliable ability to score goals.
What sets him apart is his shot power. Delap strikes the ball with incredible venom, often making it difficult for goalkeepers to react in time. A great example of this was his goal against West Ham, where the sheer force of his shot left Alphonse Areola unable to block it, even after getting a hand to the ball.
Quick Release and Intelligent Movement
One attribute that stands out in Delap's play is his quick shot release. This ability to take shots with minimal time and space, coupled with bravery to shoot from tight angles, is something Chelsea’s current striker, Nicolas Jackson, is only starting to develop.
Beyond his finishing, Delap's box movement is particularly impressive. His runs are calculated, allowing him to find space against compact defenses. A standout example of his movement was a goal against Aston Villa, where he cleverly adjusted his positioning several times before finishing with his weaker left foot. This highlights another key strength: his weak foot is reliable, producing powerful, accurate shots in tight situations.