Enzo Maresca
Chelsea’s summer signing, Liam Delap, is set for another extended spell on the sidelines following a dislocated shoulder sustained during the Blues’ recent 0-0 draw against Bournemouth. The 22-year-old forward, who joined Chelsea from Ipswich Town for £30 million, was forced to leave the pitch early after a collision with Bournemouth defender Marcos Senesi, leaving him with his arm in a sling. This latest setback compounds Delap’s injury woes, having already missed significant playing time earlier in the season due to a hamstring injury.
Enzo Maresca said: “Unfortunately he was already out for two months and he has to be out again. His hamstring injury against Fulham resulted in him missing two months of football. His return to Maresca’s side in October also did not go well, as he was given two quick-fire yellow cards for barging Yerson Mosquera and Emmanuel Agbadou in a Carabao Cup clash against Wolverhampton Wanderers. Maresca described the actions as ‘very stupid’ and ’embarrassing’ and Delap publicly and privately apologised to team-mates. During his time on the side-lines, Delap may have an opportunity to study the positions and spaces Maresca wants him to take up. The pair worked with each other in Manchester City’s Under-21s title winning team in 2020/21. Against teams in a low block, it’s more difficult because there is no space to attack.”
Delap’s absence is a significant blow to Chelsea, as the young forward had shown promise, notably scoring in Chelsea’s impressive 3-0 victory over Barcelona in the Champions League. His goal against the Catalan giants marked his first for the club outside of the Club World Cup, and he has been limited to just eight Premier League starts this season. The injury timeline suggests he may not return to action until February, further hampering his ability to establish himself in the first team.
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca’s concern over Delap’s condition was evident in his post-match comments. The Italian manager highlighted the challenges Delap has faced since his move to Stamford Bridge, including disciplinary issues that have further disrupted his playing time. Despite these setbacks, Delap’s time on the sidelines could offer him an opportunity to refine his understanding of Maresca’s tactical demands, particularly in navigating low-block defenses.
Delap was initially brought in as a replacement for Nicolas Jackson, who was loaned to Bayern Munich. With Delap sidelined, Maresca has had to explore alternative options, including deploying Pedro Neto as a striker in the recent victory over Barcelona. As Chelsea navigates this challenging period, the club will hope for Delap’s swift recovery and eventual return to form.
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