Liam Delap’s Exceptional Throwing Ability Earned Him a Ban from Youth Football Throw-Ins

Key Takeaways:

• Liam Delap was banned from taking throw-ins at the age of nine due to concerns from parents about his powerful throws.
• He scored 12 goals in the Premier League for Ipswich Town last season, impressing enough to secure a move to Chelsea.
• Enzo Maresca has backed Delap’s potential, labelling him a future England number nine earlier this summer.

Early Sporting Life and Unique Skills

Liam Delap, now a Chelsea striker, was prohibited from taking throw-ins during his childhood after complaints from parents who felt his exceptional ability was detrimental to the game. The son of Rory Delap, whose legendary long throw-ins for Stoke City were so influential that opponents would sometimes prefer to concede a corner rather than a throw, Liam demonstrated similar prowess from a young age.

Unlike his father, Liam has carved out a reputation based on his scoring instinct and relentless leadership up front, but he also possessed a unique talent for throwing, having shown promise in javelin as a youngster. He played rugby for his school in Derby before committing himself fully to football.

Banned from Throw-Ins at Age Nine

Delap’s distinct advantage was soon noticed when, as a nine-year-old, he was given throw-in duties. However, the parents of opposition players argued that his throws were ‘ruining the game’, resulting in a ban from taking throw-ins—a restriction he has adhered to ever since, as reported by the Daily Mail.

Pathway from Derby County to Chelsea

Initially, Delap modelled his play on his father, having spent his formative years watching Rory in action for Stoke. Early exposure to football instilled in him a desire to succeed in the sport. Delap joined Derby County’s academy, spending ten years there, before being recruited by Manchester City.

Despite an impressive stint at the Etihad Stadium, Delap was unable to secure a regular first-team place and subsequently embarked on several loan spells in the EFL. At the start of last season, Ipswich Town acquired his services, where he surpassed expectations by netting 12 Premier League goals during his brief stay at Portman Road.

Bright Prospects at Stamford Bridge

Delap’s prolific scoring for Ipswich Town prompted Chelsea to secure his signature. The Blues are now looking to challenge for a top-four league finish, or potentially contest the title, with Delap leading their forward line.

Enzo Maresca expressed unwavering confidence in Delap’s future, remarking earlier this summer: “I don’t have any doubt that he can be in the future England number nine.

“He knows exactly what we can give him, I know what Liam can give us. It’s a win-win. We like Liam, Liam likes us, so it was an easy conversation.”