NEWS

Liam Delap Set to Return as Chelsea Rotate Squad for Carabao Cup Tie

Chelsea striker Liam Delap is poised to make his comeback, manager Enzo Maresca has confirmed, as the club plans to rest several key players for their Carabao Cup fourth-round clash against Wolves.

The young forward has been sidelined for two months with a hamstring injury but returned to full training last week. While Delap is unlikely to start the match, he is expected to feature as a substitute, providing a boost to Chelsea’s attacking options. Fellow young striker Marc Guiu is set to start his third consecutive game in Delap’s absence.

Speaking to reporters ahead of the game, Maresca said:

“He took part in a complete session yesterday and is available for tomorrow. No, he will not play 90 minutes. He’s been out for two months, so we need to gradually bring him back to 100 per cent fitness.”

The Italian manager also provided updates on other players managing minor injuries. After Saturday’s 2-1 home defeat to Sunderland, Maresca revealed that Joao Pedro, Enzo Fernandez, and Moises Caicedo are all dealing with fitness issues that have limited their participation in full training sessions with the squad.

“We have to manage the squad carefully, especially with the Carabao Cup coming up. Some of our key players are carrying small niggles, so rotation will be important,” Maresca added.

Delap’s return is a welcome boost for Chelsea as they navigate a congested fixture schedule, giving Maresca additional options in attack while maintaining fitness across the squad.