CELEBRITY
New Chelsea Boss Makes Feelings Clear on Liam Delap After Poor Display in Chelsea’s 6-4 Win
New Chelsea Boss Makes Feelings Clear on Liam Delap After Poor Display in Chelsea’s 6-4 Win
Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso has continued to back striker Liam Delap despite his underwhelming display in Chelsea’s dramatic 6-4 pre-season victory over Western Sydney Wanderers.
Delap struggled to make an impact in front of goal and was overshadowed by João Pedro, who scored a sensational nine-minute hat-trick after coming off the bench. The contrast between the two forwards has intensified competition for Chelsea’s starting striker role.
Despite Delap’s performance, Alonso is not believed to have lost faith in the 23-year-old. Instead, the Chelsea boss views pre-season as an opportunity to assess his players and improve their sharpness before the competitive campaign begins. Reports indicate Alonso values Delap’s work rate and potential but expects higher standards as competition for places increases.
Chelsea’s reported interest in experienced striker Danny Welbeck has further increased the pressure on Delap, with Alonso keen to add leadership and experience to his young squad.