One journalist has said that it is now time for one new Chelsea signing to step up after a stuttering start to his Blues career.
It’s actually not entirely on the fault of the player either, that he has stuttered. Because he has been out injured for a large part of this season already and only just returned. But the sentiment of this article is bang on.
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It IS absolutely time for Liam Delap to step up and take his Chelsea opportunity by the scruff of the neck.
Delap was sent off on his return from injury last week after a couple of stupid challenges and involvements, but tonight he should get another chance for a comeback against Qarabag in the Champions League.
Delap’s time to shine?
The Evening Standard journalist Dom Smith writes:
‘Chelsea’s recruitment team felt pleased with having secured a relative bargain when they got the signing of Delap over the line for just £30million. But a stop-start first five months with the Blues will have frustrated the young centre-forward.
‘Delap’s overall performance against Esperance – aside from his sole Chelsea goal – was instructive of what he can provide for the Blues when in full flow. At his best, he drives down avenues with the ball, draws defenders away from other Chelsea playmakers, uses his physicality to hold the ball up, lays it off and drops deep to receive and spread wide.
‘Chelsea lacked many of these traits during Delap’s time on the treatment table. If he can now keep his fitness – and his head – then his return should bring Maresca’s team balance in the final third, as well as goals.’
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