The Pressure's On: Liam Delap's Bid To Break The Chelsea No. 9 Curse And Play For England

David

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Post on Jun 17, 2025

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The Pressure's On: Liam Delap's Bid to Break the Chelsea No. 9 Curse and Play for England

The Chelsea No. 9 shirt. A jersey steeped in history, yet recently synonymous with underperformance. From the legendary Didier Drogba to the more recent struggles of Romelu Lukaku and others, the weight of expectation has proven almost unbearable for many strikers. Now, young Liam Delap, currently at Stoke City on loan from Manchester City, finds himself unexpectedly at the heart of a fascinating narrative: can he not only conquer the infamous Chelsea curse, but also earn a coveted spot in the England national team?

The whispers started earlier this year. Reports linking Delap to a potential Stamford Bridge move, perhaps even wearing the iconic number nine, sent ripples through the footballing world. While the transfer hasn't materialized yet, the speculation highlights the immense potential seen in the 21-year-old. Delap possesses a potent blend of physicality, technical skill, and a clinical eye for goal—qualities desperately needed at Chelsea.

Can Delap Overcome the Odds?

The "Chelsea No. 9 curse" is more than just superstition; it represents the immense pressure associated with playing for one of the Premier League's biggest clubs. High expectations, intense scrutiny, and the constant pressure to deliver results can derail even the most promising careers. But Delap, known for his determination and unwavering focus, seems uniquely equipped to handle the challenge.

His loan spell at Stoke City has been crucial to his development. While he hasn't always been a guaranteed starter, the experience of regular Championship football has toughened him up, providing invaluable match practice and a platform to showcase his abilities. Scoring goals consistently at that level demonstrates his readiness for a step up.

The England Pathway:

Beyond Chelsea, the allure of an England call-up adds another layer of complexity and motivation for Delap. Gareth Southgate is known for his meticulous player selection, favoring consistency and adaptability. A successful season, whether at Chelsea or elsewhere, would undoubtedly put Delap firmly on the radar.

Several factors could influence his chances:

• Consistent Goal Scoring: Maintaining a high goal-scoring rate is paramount. This will not only attract the attention of Southgate but also increase his market value significantly.
• Improved All-Round Game: While goals are vital, Delap needs to show improvement in other aspects of his game, such as link-up play and defensive contributions. A well-rounded game is essential for success at the highest level.
• Fitness and Injury Prevention: Avoiding injuries is critical, especially given the physical demands of Premier League football.

The Future Remains Bright:

Whether or not Liam Delap ends up at Chelsea, his future looks incredibly bright. He's a player with immense potential, capable of overcoming the challenges ahead. His ambition and talent suggest he has the tools to break the Chelsea curse and potentially wear the Three Lions shirt. The next season will be pivotal in determining just how far he can go. The pressure is on, but Delap appears ready to embrace it. This young striker is one to watch very closely.

What are your predictions for Liam Delap's future? Share your thoughts in the comments below!