Delap Defies Carsley’s Striker Concerns: Traditional No. 9 Role Far From Obsolete
While England U-21 manager Lee Carsley expressed reservations about the depth of English football’s No. 9 talent pool, Liam Delap is determined to demonstrate that the classic centre forward is thriving.
In a recent interview, Carsley suggested that England lacked options in two pivotal positions, notably the central striker role behind captain Harry Kane.
However, Delap, who has made a significant impact for Ipswich Town in his inaugural Premier League season with 10 goals, firmly believes that the traditional No. 9 skillset remains crucial in modern football.
“Crucial Role”: Delap Champions Centre Forward Position
“Absolutely not,” Delap asserted when questioned about the perceived decline of his position. “I believe it’s a vital role within the team, as every position is.”
He added, “Strikers may face increased scrutiny if they’re not scoring or creating goals, but I think every team requires a forward. Whether you’re performing well without scoring or finding the net, it’s still an essential contribution. I don’t believe the role has diminished in importance.”
vCard.red is a free platform for creating a mobile-friendly digital business cards. You can easily create a vCard and generate a QR code for it, allowing others to scan and save your contact details instantly.
The platform allows you to display contact information, social media links, services, and products all in one shareable link. Optional features include appointment scheduling, WhatsApp-based storefronts, media galleries, and custom design options.
Liam Delap aims to prove that his position – an old-fashioned centre forward – is not becoming extinct.
England under-21s head coach Lee Carsley highlighted the striker position as an area where England lacks strength in depth.
Harry Kane (right) is the established figure in that role – but Delap aspires to reach similar heights.
Honing His Craft: Physicality and Learning from the Best
Delap has earned recognition for his hold-up play, an aspect of his game he is continuously striving to improve.
His physical prowess at a young age is attributed to various factors, including backyard wrestling matches with his father, Rory Delap, renowned for his powerful long throws during his Stoke City career.
“Growing up with a younger brother meant constant football, rugby, and wrestling in the garden,” Delap recounted.
“He’s even tougher than me, which taught me a great deal and is where I developed much of my physicality as a kid.”
Asked if his father ever eased up during these playful encounters, Delap replied, “Definitely not! My brother and I were the same growing up. We enjoyed the aggressive, physical side of it; it was fun.”
Senior Team Experience and Kane’s “Ruthlessness”
Delap, along with Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton and Southampton’s Taylor Harwood-Bellis, recently trained with Thomas Tuchel and the senior England squad. This experience provided Delap with insight into the level required to potentially lead his country’s attack in the future.
Despite his composed demeanour, the 22-year-old admitted being struck by Harry Kane’s relentless drive, even in training sessions.
Delap attributes much of his strength to wrestling with his father Rory (pictured) and brother during childhood.
He spoke about Kane’s “ruthlessness” – even in training – and how he can gain valuable lessons from him.
“Kane is someone I’ve admired for a long time; he possesses everything,” Delap added.
“He’s had an exceptional career and continues to perform at the highest level. For someone young like me to look up to him and then observe him firsthand is an invaluable experience.”
“I had a brief conversation with him; he’s a genuinely nice person. Watching his shooting drills alone was incredibly informative. It’s just… everything goes in! “
“His all-around game is outstanding, and he’s consistently performed at the highest level for so long. As a striker, witnessing the best in action is something I truly appreciate, and he’s the best I’ve ever seen.”
Transfer Interest and Future Ambitions
Delap is reportedly attracting significant interest this summer, with Chelsea and Manchester United among his admirers.
The next few years could be pivotal for Delap, with a potential high-profile transfer on the horizon, followed by the U21 European Championships in Slovakia this summer, and aspirations to be part of the senior squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
He acknowledges he is still developing, stating he is comfortable with this process. Delap identified Liverpool’s Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate as his most challenging opponents this season but emphasized the significant learning and growth he has experienced throughout the campaign.
“This is my first full Premier League season, and learning and improvement are inevitable,” he stated.
Delap mentioned Virgil van Dijk (pictured) and Ibrahima Konate as his toughest adversaries so far this season.
Nonetheless, in his debut Premier League campaign, he is focused on continued development of his skills.
Premier League Intensity: A Learning Curve
“The manager and my Ipswich teammates have been instrumental in my development. Game by game, I believe I’m absorbing as much as possible and applying it to the next match.”
“The Premier League’s quality and physicality are incredibly intense and elevated.”
“I’ve naturally become fitter as the season has progressed. It’s about maximizing every opportunity because in this league, mistakes are severely punished.”