The Liam Delap Chelsea striker has made a remarkably frank evaluation of his performance at the FA Cup after failing to convert a very easy opportunity with Hull City. The forward was not shy to express his anger and described his opportunity before goal as stupid, which is both regretful and accountable.
Chelsea won the match, and Delap was in the limelight. The burden of the attack was squarely on Joao Pedro shoulders with Joao Pedro slumbering with the fourth-round tie. Delap should have taken advantage of this chance to make a statement and enhance his cause of more frequent minutes.
That opportunity was presented to him through the match. In the middle of the first half, he was aggressive towards Hull goalkeeper Dillon Phillips. The clearance hit the crossbar and fell near the line quite dangerously. The goal seemed unattainable after a short moment. Rather, there was indecisiveness. Delap did not respond in time and was unable to complete the rebound.
That moment was the one which to-summed up his season. The PS30 million summer signing has exhibited bits of quality and little rhythm. He has sustained injuries that have put a halt on his momentum. Problems with discipline have not been helpful either. His final objective was several months ago, and confidence seems to be the weak side.
However, his post-match remarks imply development. It is not simple to come out in the open and admit guilt and at a club the demands are insurmountable. Delap did not attribute it to tactics, teammates or luck. He blamed himself.
The coaching team at Chelsea will take such a reaction as a positive indicator. Before improvement, there usually is awareness. Delap understands there are opportunities at this stage and they have to be grabbed at once.
