Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca has confirmed that striker Liam Delap will miss tomorrow’s Premier League home clash against Sunderland, but he’s expected to return for the Carabao Cup fourth-round meeting with Wolves next Wednesday. The news comes after Chelsea’s midweek 5–1 Champions League demolition of Ajax, a game that saw the club’s young stars shine brightly, as reported by Softfootball.
Chelsea now turn their attention to the Premier League, where they will host newly promoted but high-flying Sunderland at Stamford Bridge. The Blues are chasing a third consecutive home win in all competitions, as reported by Softfootball.
According to Fabrizio Romano via his official X account, Maresca revealed that Delap, who’s been sidelined since August with a hamstring injury picked up against Fulham, took part in his first full training session on Thursday. Maresca said:
Liam trained with the group yesterday for the first time. He won’t be available for tomorrow’s game, but probably for the next one.
The striker’s recovery is ahead of schedule, considering he was originally expected to return in November. Maresca, however, urged patience. He added:
The schedule can change a bit; it depends on how they improve or get worse. They said he might be back for the 25th, so he’s close.
Delap’s return couldn’t come at a better time. With Cole Palmer ruled out for several weeks and João Pedro managing minor fitness issues, the 22-year-old’s comeback will add much-needed depth to Chelsea’s attack.
In his absence, Marc Guiu has stepped up impressively, scoring against Ajax and earning Maresca’s trust. The Italian coach confirmed the teenager is ready to start again:
Absolutely, he’s ready. Marc is a proper number nine: strong, sharp, and still improving.
Maresca also praised Sunderland, warning that the Black Cats won’t be easy opposition. He said:
They have shown they are a good side since promotion. They play together and fight together — same points as us. It’s not going to be easy, but that’s the Premier League.
As Chelsea prepare for a busy stretch, including the Carabao Cup clash with Wolves and a league trip to Tottenham, Maresca will be hoping Delap’s full return adds a fresh spark to the Blues’ growing momentum.
