Will Liam Delap End The Chelsea No. 9 Curse And Earn An England Call-Up?

David

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Post on Jun 17, 2025

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Will Liam Delap End the Chelsea No. 9 Curse and Earn an England Call-Up?

The Chelsea No. 9 shirt. A seemingly cursed jersey, a graveyard of attacking talent where dreams go to die. From the high-profile disappointments of Alvaro Morata and Romelu Lukaku to the more subdued struggles of others, the iconic number has become synonymous with underperformance at Stamford Bridge. But could young Liam Delap, currently on loan at Everton, be the one to finally break the curse and, in doing so, propel himself into the England squad?

The question hangs heavy in the air. Delap, a powerful and technically gifted striker, possesses the raw talent to succeed where others have faltered. His loan spell at Everton provides the perfect testing ground, allowing him to showcase his abilities against Premier League opposition without the intense pressure of Chelsea's expectations. But can he deliver consistently at the highest level? That's the million-dollar question.

Delap's Potential: A Force of Nature

Delap's attributes are undeniable. His physicality is a significant asset; he's strong, quick, and adept at holding up the ball, qualities often lacking in Chelsea's recent No. 9 incumbents. He also possesses a clinical eye for goal, evidenced by his impressive goal-scoring record at youth level. However, translating that potential into consistent Premier League performances is the challenge.

• Physical Prowess: Delap's strength and pace make him a nightmare for defenders.
• Clinical Finishing: He possesses a natural instinct for finding the back of the net.
• Aerial Ability: His height and jumping prowess make him a threat in the air.

Breaking the Curse: The Challenges Ahead

Even with his talent, Delap faces significant hurdles. The pressure of inheriting the infamous No. 9 shirt at Chelsea, should he return and claim the spot, is immense. The weight of expectation, coupled with the scrutiny that comes with playing for a club of Chelsea's magnitude, could easily derail a young player's progress.

Furthermore, competition for places in both the Chelsea and England squads is fierce. Establishing himself as a regular starter at Everton is crucial. Only sustained high-level performances will attract Gareth Southgate's attention and earn him a coveted place in the England national team.

The England Call-Up: A Realistic Goal?

While an England call-up might seem a distant prospect for now, it’s not entirely unrealistic. If Delap can consistently perform at Everton, showcasing his talent and proving his ability to thrive under pressure, he'll undoubtedly be on Southgate's radar. His age and potential make him an exciting prospect for the future of English football. A successful loan spell could be the springboard he needs to achieve his ambitions.

The Verdict: Hope Over Hype?

Whether Delap can truly break the Chelsea No. 9 curse remains to be seen. It’s a challenge that has defeated many talented players. However, his raw talent and potential are undeniable. His time at Everton will be crucial in determining his future. A successful loan spell could see him not only silencing the critics but also securing a place in the England squad – a truly remarkable achievement for a player still relatively early in his career. The coming months will be pivotal in answering the question: can Liam Delap rewrite the narrative surrounding the Chelsea No. 9 shirt? Only time will tell.