Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has expressed high hopes for Ipswich striker Liam Delap, who he coached during their time together at Manchester City’s academy. Maresca believes that Delap, who has impressed in his first full Premier League season with Ipswich, could become “an important player for England.”
The 21-year-old has been a key performer for Ipswich since their return to the Premier League, netting six goals so far. Delap, the son of former Premier League midfielder Rory Delap, made a permanent move to Ipswich from Manchester City in the summer for a deal worth up to £20 million.
Maresca praised Delap’s abilities, saying, “Liam is a fantastic player, especially for his age.” Reflecting on their time together at City, he added, “He scored about 22 to 24 goals in a year. He’s a very good striker.” Maresca also noted that while England has many talented forwards, Delap’s work ethic and understanding of the game, both on and off the ball, make him a player capable of contributing at the national level.
Delap had a successful stint with City’s Under-21s, scoring 35 goals in 36 appearances. He also had loan spells at Stoke City, Preston North End, and Hull City, before deciding to leave City in search of regular first-team football at Ipswich. Though he has not yet made his senior debut for England, Delap has earned 10 caps for the Under-21s, scoring twice, and has represented England at various youth levels.
Ipswich, currently sitting in 19th place in the Premier League, are three points away from safety and will face Chelsea on Monday.
