Liam Delap can become ‘an important player for England’ – Enzo Maresca
Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca believes Ipswich striker Liam Delap, whom he coached at Manchester City’s academy, can become “an important player for England”.
The 21-year-old has been one of the Tractor Boys’ standout performers since their return to the Premier League, scoring six goals so far in his first full season in the top flight.
Delap, the son of former Premier League midfielder Rory Delap, joined Ipswich Albion on a permanent transfer from Manchester City’s youth academy this summer. The deal is worth up to £20 million.
“Liam is a fantastic player for his age,” Maresca said. “I think the year we had together he scored (around) 22 to 24 goals. He’s a very good striker.
“England has a lot of good players, a lot of good forwards, but he works hard without the ball and with the ball, understands the game and can score goals. I think he can be an important player for England.”
Delap scored 35 goals in 36 games for Manchester City’s under-21 team and was previously loaned out to Championship teams Stoke City, Preston and Hull City before choosing to leave Manchester City in the summer. Get consistent first-team opportunities.
He is yet to make his international debut but has made 10 appearances for England Under-21s and has scored two goals in previous appearances for various international age groups.
The Tractor Boys are 19th in the Premier League, three points adrift of safety, and face Chelsea at home on Monday.
