Liam Delap endured a troublesome first half throughout Chelsea’s 4–0 victory over Hull Metropolis, with many supporters voicing frustration and even calling for his substitution on the break.
Nevertheless, the striker responded in emphatic trend after halftime. Though he didn’t get on the scoresheet, Delap registered two essential assists and performed a key function in Chelsea’s attacking dominance.
His second help, a superbly weighted go to Estêvão Willian was notably spectacular. In that second, Delap may have chosen to shoot, however as a substitute confirmed composure and unselfishness to arrange his teammate for a easy end.
That call highlighted progress in his sport maturity over ego. Softfootball gathered robust reactions throughout social media after the match. Some followers even prompt Delap ought to change from the No.9 shirt to No.11, referencing what many supporters jokingly name Chelsea’s “quantity 9 curse.”
Traditionally, a number of high-profile strikers have struggled whereas sporting the No.9 shirt at Stamford Bridge, resulting in superstition amongst sections of the fanbase. In the meantime, the No.11 jersey is usually related to membership legend Didier Drogba, who famously thrived at Chelsea whereas sporting that quantity.
Whereas shirt numbers don’t decide efficiency, the talk displays the emotional expectations positioned on Delap as Chelsea’s central striker.
What issues extra is his response on the pitch and towards Hull Metropolis, his second-half show confirmed resilience, intelligence and workforce spirit.
If he can construct consistency on performances like that second half, the dialog round Delap will shortly shift from criticism to confidence.
