Liam Delap Aims To Shatter The Chelsea No. 9 Curse And Earn An England Place.

David

3 min read

Post on Jun 17, 2025

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Liam Delap Aims to Shatter the Chelsea No. 9 Curse and Earn an England Place

Can a young striker from Manchester City break the infamous Chelsea No. 9 jinx and propel himself into the England squad? Liam Delap is betting on it.

The Chelsea number 9 shirt. A jersey steeped in history, yet recently synonymous with underachievement and unmet expectations. From the legendary Didier Drogba to more recent, less successful incumbents, the weight of expectation has seemingly proven too much for many. But whispers are circulating that a young, hungry striker from Manchester City, Liam Delap, might just be the man to finally break the curse. And his ambitions extend far beyond Stamford Bridge – he's aiming for an England call-up.

Delap, currently on loan at Preston North End, is showcasing the raw talent and clinical finishing that has long marked him as one to watch. His performances in the Championship are turning heads, proving he's more than ready for the Premier League spotlight. But a move to Chelsea, a club known for its demanding environment and high-pressure games, would represent a significant step up.

Facing the Pressure: Can Delap Conquer the Chelsea No. 9 Jinx?

The "Chelsea No. 9 curse" is more than just folklore; it's a tangible pressure that weighs heavily on any player donning the iconic shirt. Recent occupants like Romelu Lukaku and Timo Werner failed to live up to expectations, leaving many to wonder if the number itself is cursed. Delap, however, seems unfazed. His youth and relentless work ethic could be the key to overcoming this perceived hurdle.

Here's what sets Delap apart:

• Proven Goalscoring Ability: His performances at Preston are testament to his knack for finding the back of the net. Consistent goalscoring at Championship level suggests he possesses the capabilities to succeed in the Premier League.
• Youth and Hunger: Unlike some previous Chelsea No. 9s, Delap brings a youthful exuberance and an undeniable hunger to prove himself on the biggest stage. This drive could be the differentiating factor.
• Physicality and Technique: Delap possesses a blend of physical strength and technical finesse, making him a versatile and adaptable striker. This adaptability is crucial for a team like Chelsea, demanding consistency across multiple competitions.

The England Ambition: A Realistic Goal?

While conquering the Chelsea No. 9 curse is a significant challenge, Delap's ambitions extend even further. He's openly expressed his desire to represent England at the senior international level. Given his age and the current state of the England squad's striking options, this ambition, while ambitious, isn't unrealistic. Consistent performances at Chelsea, coupled with continued development, could fast-track him to Gareth Southgate's attention.

The Road Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities

The path to Chelsea and the England squad won’t be easy. Competition for places at both club and international level is fierce. Delap needs to maintain his current form, adapt to the rigours of top-flight football, and prove his resilience under pressure. However, if he manages to overcome these challenges, the rewards could be immense.

Will Liam Delap become the next great Chelsea striker and an England international? Only time will tell. But his current trajectory suggests he's certainly got what it takes to make a serious run at both ambitions.

What are your thoughts? Can Liam Delap break the Chelsea No. 9 curse? Share your predictions in the comments below!