Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has confirmed that striker Liam Delap apologized to teammates following his dismissal during the Blues’ 4-3 League Cup victory over Wolves. The costly red card attracted strong criticism from Maresca, who described Delap’s actions as “stupid” and “embarrassing.”
“Immediately after the match in the dressing room, he apologized to everyone,” Maresca stated. “I’ve spoken with Liam. He understands the situation and acknowledges his mistake. That’s all there is to say.”
The suspension rules Delap out of Chelsea’s crucial Premier League encounter against Tottenham this weekend. The young forward joined Chelsea in a £30 million move from Ipswich last June but has managed just one goal since his arrival.
Maresca clarified earlier comments suggesting Delap “plays for himself,” explaining: “My point was that Liam focuses intensely on his battle with defenders, sometimes at the team’s expense. I believe he’ll become an excellent player for us, but certain aspects need improvement.”
Discipline remains a persistent issue for Chelsea this season. The Blues have received red cards in five of their last nine matches, including one shown to Maresca himself for excessive celebration against Liverpool.
“We’re actively addressing these situations,” Maresca commented. “Hopefully we’ll learn and demonstrate better judgment moving forward.”
Chelsea currently sit ninth in the Premier League after last weekend’s 2-1 home defeat to Sunderland. Despite this setback, they trail third-placed Tottenham by just three points ahead of Saturday’s London derby.
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