Will Liam Delap's Talent End The Chelsea No. 9 Shirt's Poor Record? England Call Beckons.

David

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Post on Jun 16, 2025

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Will Liam Delap's Talent End the Chelsea No. 9 Shirt's Poor Record? England Call Beckons

The Chelsea No. 9 shirt. A jersey steeped in history, once adorned by legends like Didier Drogba and Franco Di Santo. Yet, in recent years, it's become synonymous with underperformance, a cursed number seemingly destined for disappointment. Could Liam Delap, the young Manchester City striker, be the man to finally break the curse and reignite the magic of the iconic shirt? And could this resurgence even propel him to an England call-up?

The weight of expectation is immense. Players like Alvaro Morata, Romelu Lukaku, and even the talented Timo Werner have all struggled to live up to the legacy of the shirt, their Chelsea careers ultimately failing to meet expectations. The pressure is palpable, a constant reminder of the past failures hanging over whoever dares to don the number.

Delap's Potential: A Fresh Start?

Delap, however, possesses a unique blend of raw talent and physical prowess that sets him apart. At just 21, he's already demonstrated a clinical finishing ability and an impressive aerial presence, attributes that could prove crucial in the demanding Premier League. His powerful shot and knack for finding the back of the net have been evident throughout his career, suggesting a potential to overcome the obstacles that have plagued previous No. 9s.

His loan spell at Stoke City offered valuable first-team experience, solidifying his potential and showcasing his adaptability. While the move didn't yield the goal tally some had predicted, the experience gained is invaluable in his development. Now, with a potential move to Stamford Bridge, he's got a chance to prove his worth on a bigger stage.

Breaking the Curse: More Than Just Goals

But ending the Chelsea No. 9 curse isn't just about goals; it's about embodying the spirit of a true Chelsea striker. It's about leadership, resilience, and the ability to perform under immense pressure. Delap’s attitude and determination will be crucial factors in his success, alongside his natural talent. His youth could also be an advantage, free from the baggage of past failures.

The England Call-Up: A Realistic Possibility?

A successful season at Chelsea, wearing the infamous No. 9 shirt and consistently delivering goals, could catapult Delap into the England squad. Gareth Southgate has shown a willingness to blood young talent, and Delap's potential is undeniable. A prolific goalscoring record could make him a strong contender for a place in future squads, especially if he can consistently deliver in big games. The competition is fierce, of course, but Delap's potential is exciting enough to warrant consideration.

The Future is Unwritten

Whether Liam Delap can truly break the curse of the Chelsea No. 9 shirt remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: his talent and potential are undeniable. The pressure is high, the challenge immense, but the opportunity to rewrite history is there for the taking. This season will be pivotal in shaping not only his Chelsea career but also his international ambitions. Keep your eyes on this young star; he might just be the one to change the narrative. What do you think? Can Delap succeed where others have failed? Let us know in the comments below.