Louis Saha labels Chelsea ace a “terrific talent” and reveals why he’s struggled | OneFootball

Former Premier League striker Louis Saha believes Liam Delap is a “terrific” talent despite his struggles this season.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CHELSEA NEWS APP FOR ALL THE LATEST UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON THE APP STORE

Chelsea fought off interest from a number of Premier League clubs to sign Delap for £30m last summer after Ipswich got relegated.

However, the 23-year-old has struggled this season, and has scored just two goals in 24 appearances in all competitions.

Louis Saha labels Liam Delap a “terrific” talent

Delap has had injury issues this season, but when he’s been on the pitch he simply hasn’t performed to the level expected or required.

Jamie Carragher believes joining Chelsea was too big a step for Delap, and on current evidence the Sky Sports pundit may have a point.

Delap has struggled for form this season. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)

However, Delap put in a promising performance against Hull and ended the game with three assists, something Liam Rosenior will hope he can build on.

He’s currently playing second fiddle to the inform Joao Pedro, but Saha still believes the England under-21 international is a talent.

“Delap is a terrific talent, and I think he could have really shined at Chelsea, but for some reason, it hasn’t happened,” he said as quoted on X.com.

“Joao Pedro came in, and it’s a different style. It doesn’t mean the player isn’t good or couldn’t have done really well at any other club.

“It’s just sometimes there’s bad timing, a wrong momentum. You come in, you miss a chance, and then the confidence goes.”

Emmanuel Emegha to arrive in the summer

Whilst Delap is still trying to find his feet, more competition is set to arrive in the summer in the shape of Emmanuel Emegha.

More Stories / Latest News

Louis Saha labels Chelsea ace a “terrific talent” and reveals why he’s struggled

21st Feb 2026, 10:15am

“The mentality is top” – Wesley Fofana reveals key difference between Rosenior and Maresca

21st Feb 2026, 09:45am

“Chelsea fans will appreciate that” – Roberto Di Matteo loves one thing Liam Rosenior has done

21st Feb 2026, 09:15am

Emegha has signed a seven year contract at Stamford Bridge, and scored 14 goals in Ligue 1 last season under Liam Rosenior.

The Dutch international is expected to go straight into the squad and compete for minutes, and it’ll be interesting to see what impact he makes.

Check out the latest edition of Simon Phillips’ SPTC podcast here: