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6 hours ago
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Former Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel has revealed that the fans wanted the club to sign Victor Osimhen instead of Liam Delap.
Mikel also added that he expects Nicolas Jackson to start as Chelsea’s first-choice striker for the 2025-26 Premier League season ahead of Delap.
Following his £30m move from Ipswich Town earlier this month, Delap made his debut for Chelsea in the Blues’ Club World Cup opener against Los Angeles FC on Monday.
The Englishman made an instant impact as he came off the bench to set up Enzo Fernandez for Chelsea’s second goal of the match.
However, despite Delap’s impressive performance, Mikel has revealed that he was not the striker that fans wanted to see at Stamford Bridge.
Speaking on DAZN, he said: “We need someone to come in, score goals and finish those chances."
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“Obviously, he [Delap] isn't the guy the fans wanted. We know who the fans wanted."
“The fans wanted Victor Osimhen to come to the club, but he didn't. Obviously, the club decided to go with Delap. He's young, he's gonna get better."
“Hopefully he hits the ground running and then he's gonna quieten those doubters. I wish him well, and I hope he succeeds at this club. I think he can."
“The runs I saw today, running behind defenders, I think he can be the guy to finish those chances.”
While Delap showed promise on his Chelsea bow, Mikel has predicted that Jackson will be tasked with leading the line when the Premier League season gets underway."
“During the season, if he's not scoring, then Delap gets his opportunity. Healthy competition is really important.”
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