'Stupid': Liam Delap reacts to big chance missed in Chelsea FA Cup win over Hull | OneFootball

Chelsea striker bounced back to register a hat-trick of assists in FA Cup win

Chelsea striker Liam Delap has said he was “stupid” for not taking his chance in the FA Cup win over Hull City.

With the in-form Joao Pedro rested by Chelsea head coach Liam Rosenior for the FA Cup fourth round cup tie on Friday night, Delap was tasked with leading the line at the MKM Stadium.

Delap’s last goal for Chelsea came in the 2-1 loss to Fulham at the beginning of the year and he ought to have broken his duck under Rosenior against Hull.

However, after the ball had hit the crossbar and bounced on the line, Delap was lethargic in picking up the rebound and failed to convert.

Speaking to the BBC afterwards, Delap admitted his reaction was “stupid” but vowed to learn from the incident.

"I swear, I almost ran off, I thought it was in.

"Obviously I was stupid, I should have just put it in but these things happen and I'll learn from it for next time.

“I thought it went in and was waiting for the referee to blow his whistle. It was silly from me but I thought it was in."

Ultimately, Chelsea did find a breakthrough in the first half as Delap teed up Pedro Neto to unleash a crisp effort from just outside the box.

Delap then set up further goals for Estevao and Neto in the second half to mark his return to the MKM Stadium with a hat-trick of assists on what was a peculiar night for the striker.

“We came here with one task and that was to win,” Delap added when speaking to TNT Sports. “We showed we can battle and also play some good football, so we are happy.

"Pedro Neto is an incredible player. He is playing in a position he is not even used to but he showed his quality."