Will Liam Delap's Talent Finally Break The Chelsea No. 9 Curse? England Call-Up On The Horizon?

David

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Post on Jun 17, 2025

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Will Liam Delap's Talent Finally Break the Chelsea No. 9 Curse? England Call-Up on the Horizon?

The Chelsea No. 9 shirt. A jersey steeped in history, worn by legends like Didier Drogba and Franco Zola, yet in recent years, it's become synonymous with underperformance and unmet expectations. Could Liam Delap, the young Manchester City striker currently on loan at Stoke City, be the man to finally break the curse and even earn a coveted England call-up? The potential is certainly there.

Delap's raw talent is undeniable. The son of former Stoke City and Derby County stalwart Rory Delap, he inherited a powerful physique and an innate goal-scoring instinct. His powerful shooting, aerial ability, and surprising agility for a player of his size make him a nightmare for defenders. While his loan spell at Stoke City hasn't been without its challenges, his performances have showcased glimpses of the star he could become. He's already proven himself capable of scoring at various levels, demonstrating adaptability and a hunger to improve.

The Chelsea Connection: A Potential Lifeline?

With Chelsea's recent struggles finding a reliable goalscorer, Delap's name has been linked with a potential move to Stamford Bridge. The club's history with the number 9 shirt weighs heavily, with players like Alvaro Morata, Romelu Lukaku, and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang failing to live up to expectations. Delap, however, possesses a different profile. He's young, hungry, and perhaps less burdened by the weight of expectation than some of his predecessors. A move to Chelsea could provide him with the platform to truly shine, but it also comes with immense pressure.

Breaking the Curse: More Than Just Goals

Breaking the Chelsea No. 9 curse isn't just about scoring goals; it's about consistency, adapting to the Premier League's intensity, and thriving under pressure. Delap's performances at Stoke will be crucial in determining his readiness for such a move. He needs to demonstrate not only goalscoring prowess but also the tactical awareness and work rate required to succeed at a club like Chelsea.

England Call-Up: A Realistic Possibility?

An England call-up is another significant goal for Delap. While still early in his career, his potential is clear. A successful season at either Stoke City or, potentially, Chelsea, coupled with continued impressive performances, could put him firmly on Gareth Southgate's radar. The pathway is there, but consistent, high-level performance remains paramount. Competition for places in the England squad is fierce, but Delap's unique skillset could make him a valuable asset.

The Future Remains Uncertain, But Exciting:

Whether Delap will ultimately break the Chelsea No. 9 curse and earn an England call-up remains to be seen. However, his talent is undeniable, and his potential is immense. His journey is one worth following, offering a compelling narrative of a young player striving to overcome challenges and reach the pinnacle of the game. Only time will tell if he can live up to his potential, but the excitement surrounding his future is palpable. The coming season promises to be crucial in shaping his career trajectory. What do you think? Can Liam Delap overcome the odds? Share your predictions in the comments below!