Will Liam Delap's Talent Break The Chelsea No. 9 Curse And Earn Him An England Call-Up?

David

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Post on Jun 16, 2025

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Will Liam Delap's Talent Break the Chelsea No. 9 Curse and Earn Him an England Call-Up?

The Chelsea number 9 shirt. A weight of expectation, a graveyard of unfulfilled potential, a jersey that's haunted strikers for years. But could young Liam Delap, currently on loan at Stoke City, be the one to finally banish the curse and, in doing so, catapult himself into the England squad? His raw talent suggests it might just be possible.

Delap, son of former Premier League player Rory Delap, possesses a potent blend of physicality, technical skill, and a clinical eye for goal – qualities often lacking in those who've previously worn the infamous Chelsea number. His loan spell at Stoke City has been crucial in his development, providing him with valuable first-team experience and the opportunity to hone his abilities against seasoned Championship opposition.

Delap's Rise and the Weight of Expectation

The young striker's impressive performances have caught the attention of many, sparking debates about his potential and future. His goalscoring prowess is undeniable; he's demonstrated a remarkable ability to find the back of the net consistently. However, the pressure of potentially inheriting the Chelsea number 9 shirt, and the accompanying expectation, is significant. The previous occupants – from Fernando Torres to Alvaro Morata – serve as a stark reminder of the challenges ahead.

This isn't just about breaking a perceived curse; it's about fulfilling the immense potential he’s shown. His physical strength, reminiscent of his father's playing style, allows him to hold up the ball effectively, bring teammates into play, and create chances. Coupled with his precise finishing, he’s a complete centre-forward, a rarity in modern football.

Can Delap Overcome the Chelsea No. 9 Jinx?

The "Chelsea No. 9 curse" is more than just superstition; it highlights the intense scrutiny and pressure placed on players in such a high-profile position at a club with such high ambitions. To succeed, Delap will need more than just talent; he'll require mental resilience, consistent performance, and the ability to handle the media spotlight.

His performances at Stoke are a good indication of his mental fortitude. Playing regularly in a demanding league is crucial to his development, and the challenges faced there will prepare him for the pressures of the Premier League and potentially even the international stage.

The Path to an England Call-Up

An England call-up is a significant ambition for any young footballer, and Delap's talent warrants consideration. However, consistent performances at the highest level are paramount. Should he continue his impressive form at Stoke and secure a place in Chelsea's first team, an England call-up would be a realistic possibility. His physical attributes, goal-scoring ability, and overall game intelligence make him a strong contender for future England squads.

The pathway is clear: continue excelling at Stoke, prove himself worthy of a starting role at Chelsea, and maintain consistent high-level performances. Only then can he realistically hope to earn that coveted England call-up.

Conclusion: A Bright Future?

Liam Delap’s talent is undeniable. Whether he can overcome the psychological burden of the Chelsea No. 9 shirt and ultimately earn an England call-up remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: his journey is one to watch closely. His progress will be a fascinating case study in the development of a young footballer under immense pressure, potentially rewriting the narrative surrounding the infamous Chelsea number 9. Will he succeed where others have failed? Only time will tell.