Liam Delap has made an instant impact for Chelsea. After providing an assist for Enzo Fernandez on his Blues debut, the England U21 international scored his first goal for Enzo Maresca side on his second start.
Owing to his immediate positivity, Delap’s place in Maresca's starting XI looks secure for the immediate future, with Nicolas Jackson banned for the next game in the Club World Cup, and their Premier League opener.
Delap’s performances have earnt rave reviews from fans and pundits with Gary Lineker is the latest to jump on the bandwagon.
Lineker compared Delap to former Chelsea great Didier Drogba, adding he could follow in the footsteps of the Ivorian striker at Stamford Bridge.
The former BBC presenter also backed Delap to be a future No.9 for England as a replacement for Harry Kane.
"I really enjoyed Liam Delap’s goal vs. Tunis. The way he brought it down, cut inside and very coolly slotted it in the corner of the net.
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"It really wasn’t the play of someone that you think is overawed by the move, which is hugely encouraging, I think for Chelsea supporters in particular, and perhaps England supporters down the line.
"Is he the heir apparent, possibly to Harry Kane? He certainly looks cool and collected in front of goal. He's a player I’ve really liked for a long time, I really think he’s got what it takes, and perhaps he’ll be the first Chelsea No.9 since Didier Drogba to be excellent."
Being compared to Drogba is arguably the biggest compliment a Chelsea striker can receive and Lineker is firm in his belief in Delap's progress.
Delap netted 12 top-flight goals last season and he will be aiming to break that barrier in his debut campaign at Stamford Bridge.
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