The Blues closed the gap to six points behind leaders Arsenal thanks to goals from Malo Gusto, Joao Pedro and Pedro Neto. ..Continue reading
While those three scored in front of goal, Delap struggled, and his substitute, Estevao, assisted Pedro soon after coming on.
Delap was looking to redeem himself after a reckless red card against Wolves in the Carabao Cup at the end of last month. He returned to domestic action after suspension and was given a starting opportunity.
However, the 22-year-old failed to impress and recorded just two attempts, one of which was on target. Maresca made a change in the 63rd minute, bringing on Estevao, who now looks set to stake his claim for a starting spot.
Delap impressed during his time at Ipswich Town last season, scoring 12 goals in 37 appearances, including one goal and one assist against Chelsea.
He was highly sought after during the summer as the Blues beat Manchester United and Newcastle United to secure his signature.
His Chelsea career started poorly after he suffered a hamstring injury during a 2–0 win over Fulham in August, sidelining him until the end of October.
He returned in the Carabao Cup match against Wolves, but his competitive debut ended prematurely due to two yellow cards.
After the dismissal, Maresca did not hold back in his criticism of the former student of the Manchester City academy, but tonight he still gave him a chance in the starting eleven.
Unfortunately, his performance could lead to a spell on the bench, allowing Estevao to step into the starting role.
Chelsea need a reliable goalscorer to mount a serious title challenge, and Delap, who was rated 4/10, has not yet proven he is up to the task.
His early days at Stamford Bridge have been difficult and fans want more from their summer signing.
Seeing Delap wearing the number nine shirt may have unsettled Chelsea supporters given the history that comes with it.
Some of the best strikers in the world have struggled with that number, including Andriy Shevchenko and Fernando Torres.
While it is premature to write off Delap, he has not made a strong first impression with the fanbase, who chose to overlook his past at Ipswich when he joined the club.
Still, many are demanding better, including one fan who wrote on X: “Delap…this is absolutely unacceptable by the way.”
Another thinks he should be impeached: “Delap out! What kind of performance is this?”
One supporter is not impressed: “What do you actually see in Delap, because this is the most limited striker I have seen in a long time.”
Another thinks he’d be better off taking part in a Royal Rumble: “Delap when asked to actually play football is hilarious. Wasted £30m on a WWE superstar. Thanks again to these brainless sporting directors.”
The England striker has the character to bounce back and live up to expectations in a young Chelsea side that now sits second in the Premier League.
Securing Champions League football was his main aim when choosing his next move, and he will be keen to lead the attack if The Blues play Barcelona later this month.
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