Chelsea forward Liam Delap faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines after picking up a hamstring injury. Coach Enzo Maresca confirmed that the 22-year-old could be out until December.
Delap’s battle with the hamstring problem has cast serious doubt over his chances of returning to action this year. According to Maresca, the forward may need “around 10 to 12 weeks” to recover.
The injury occurred in Chelsea’s final game before the international break, when Delap limped off after just 14 minutes in the 2-0 win over Fulham.
Chelsea return to action on Saturday against Brentford, and Maresca provided an update on Delap’s condition in his pre-match press conference:
“I think he will be out for about 10 to 12 weeks. So, there is still quite a long way to go before he can return.”
Delap joined Chelsea from Ipswich Town in June for £30 million and had featured in all three of their league games this season before his injury.
Following Delap’s setback, Chelsea immediately recalled Spanish striker Marc Guiu, who had been set to join Sunderland on loan.
Chelsea currently sit second in the Premier League table with seven points from three matches, while Liverpool lead the standings with three wins out of three.
