At the time, it was seen as the latest example of how far Manchester United had fallen, no longer a dream destination for any young English footballer.
Liam Delap had the option to become United’s new number 9. He ticked all the boxes – economical, young, English, hungry, no ego, mature and ready to shake this sleeping giant out of its slumber.
There was a certain confidence around Old Trafford ahead of the expected deal – the underlying belief was that no English youth could ever defy the might of Manchester United. United also had another trump card – director of football Jason Wilcox brought Delap from Derby County to Manchester City’s brilliant academy.
And yet, when Delap chose Chelsea instead there was laughter all around the King’s Road. The possibility of Champions League football is believed to be the main reason behind this decision. It was still a major blow to United’s delusions of grandeur.
Instead, perhaps United have actually dodged a bullet. While seven appearances, only four of which were starts, is not enough time to rule out any new signings, the early signs are not promising.
His performance in the 2-0 win at Burnley on Saturday, courtesy of Pedro Neto and Enzo Fernandez, should be of serious concern to Chelsea supporters.
Enzo Maresca’s Blues are a possession-based unit. The core of that philosophy is that the central striker brings others into the game as much as himself. Supplying willing runners is as important as scoring goals. Delap does not appear equipped for such a role.
Two incidents illustrated the problem at Turf Moor. Where Delap impressed was his ability to hold off physical defenders, turn quickly and drive towards goal.
In the first half, there was a Sasha on the right and he was off his marker, there were runners on both sides. First part of job description completed. The decision to fire from a distance of 30 yards rather than choosing any other option would not have impressed his superiors.
The 22-year-old’s aversion to facing an unknown Fernandez in the second half was even worse. He remains on zero chances created, averaging zero goals from less than one shot per game.
Benjamin Cesco has faced criticism for not being fielded as a more expensive alternative to Delap, but at least he has offered something, creating seven chances so far and finding the net twice.
Nicholas Jackson was widely mocked during his tenure at Stamford Bridge. Keyboard warriors enjoyed creating memes after each glaring gaffe.
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However, Jackson finished his first season with 17 goals in a team that was not as talented as the current setup. Delap’s chances of getting that far seem bleak.
This continues the trend of flattery being used to deceive English strikers. Apart from Harry Kane, there is a lack of in-form strikers.
Delap was expected to find a place for England but, mainly due to injury absences, he has not yet been included in Thomas Tuchel’s squad. To change that situation we need to see a lot more from him.
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