Ipswich supporters worried when star player Liam Delap was absent due to a rib injury for their match against Chelsea. Delap, with 12 goals in 30 appearances, has been crucial for the team in their fight to avoid relegation. In his place, George Hirst stepped up, displaying excellent hold-up play and contributing to Ipswich’s opener. Hirst posed a threat on goal and showed promise during the match. Delap ultimately came on despite his injury but displayed his sought-after skills. If Ipswich is relegated, Delap could be signed for £30m, attracting interest from top Premier League clubs.
Even the most hopeful Ipswich fan would have been anxious when Liam Delap’s name was missing from the teamsheet ahead of kick-off at Stamford Bridge.
The 22-year-old has been a key player in an otherwise challenging season for Kieran McKenna’s team.
His 12 goals across 30 Premier League games have kept the Tractor Boys fighting to maintain their status in the top tier.
Without his contributions, relegation would have possibly been a certainty long ago.
A rib injury prevented Delap from starting, leading to George Hirst taking his spot in the lineup.
In just his second league appearance of the season, Hirst made the most of his chance.
With the away team under significant pressure in the first 20 minutes, Hirst displayed excellent hold-up play, easing the tension for his teammates.
Ipswich’s first goal stemmed from this, as Hirst shielded the ball before feeding Johnson on the right for Enciso’s opening strike.
The 26-year-old proved to be a goal-scoring threat as well. Just ten minutes into the second half, Hirst made a sharp run down the flank, cut inside from the left, and unleashed a powerful shot that narrowly missed Robert Sanchez’s left post.
Delap eventually took over for Hirst and, although clearly hampered by his injury, the England U21 forward showcased the talents that have made him one of the most desired strikers in English football.
Should the Tractor Boys face relegation, Delap will be available for a mere £30m – a bargain for a player of his caliber.
Chelsea is among several Premier League clubs looking to acquire Delap, who is likely to depart if Ipswich returns to the Championship.
The silver lining for McKenna’s squad is that, based on Sunday’s performance, they have demonstrated they can manage without him.