Maresca: Delap has potential to become England’s main striker

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has expressed his confidence in Liam Delap‘s potential to become England’s main striker — but the player must first prove himself at his new club.

The 22-year-old striker, recently purchased from Ipswich Town for £30 million, could make his debut when Chelsea faces LAFC in the FIFA Club World Cup opener in Atlanta.

“I’ve said before that Liam has the potential to be England’s number nine. I have no doubt he can achieve this in the future,” said Maresca.

Maresca, who previously coached Delap at Manchester City’s academy, added a firm message for his protégé:

“The message is always the same: come in, work hard, work more than the other strikers and you will be the first choice.”

His new teammate Moises Caicedo also offered support — describing Delap as a top-quality player who will score many goals for Chelsea.