Paul Merson claims Liam Delap return is crucial for Chelsea’s form

Following a disappointing house defeat to newly-promoted Sunderland, pundit Paul Merson has claimed that Chelsea are desperately lacking the presence of striker Liam Delap.

Merson: Chelsea Desperately Want Injured Delap Again to Repair Assault

The Blues fell to a 2-1 loss at Stamford Bridge, a efficiency that highlighted their ongoing struggles in entrance of objective.

Whereas the continued absence of Cole Palmer as a result of a groin difficulty has been a serious speaking level, Merson believes the dearth of a focus up entrance is a extra urgent concern.

Merson pointed to the efficiency of Marc Guiu, who made his first Premier League begin in opposition to Sunderland, as proof of the issue.

He said to Sky Sports activities, “They want Delap again badly, they want a focus. Guiu performed up entrance and I feel he touched the ball 9, ten occasions.

You possibly can’t try this in a group which are alleged to be dominating the ball.”

Delap has been sidelined since struggling an damage within the third recreation of the season in opposition to Fulham.

His absence has been keenly felt, particularly after his dominant show in opposition to West Ham only a week previous to his setback.

In his place, Joao Pedro has shouldered a lot of the hanging duties, however he typically seems simpler in a deeper function.

There’s, nonetheless, optimistic information on the horizon for supervisor Enzo Maresca. He has confirmed that Delap has resumed coaching with the primary group at Cobham.

Though the striker was not prepared for the Sunderland match, his return to the pitch is now imminent.

Chelsea will possible train warning, that means the upcoming EFL Cup tie in opposition to Wolves could come too quickly.

This units the stage for a possible return within the essential league conflict in opposition to London rivals Tottenham, a match the place having their main striker out there may show decisive for the Blues.