Nottingham Forest striker Liam Delap has admitted that training away from Chelsea's first-team squad was frustrating, but insists he does not regret his decision to join the club.
The 23-year-old spent just one season at Stamford Bridge after arriving from Ipswich Town for £30million in 2025.
He scored three goals in 47 appearances before joining Forest in a club-record deal worth an initial £45million, potentially rising to £50million.
Delap reflects on Chelsea training exclusion
Delap was among the players training separately from Chelsea's main squad during pre-season, ahead of his move to Nottingham Forest.
Speaking to The Telegraph, he described the experience as "a bit rubbish" but credited his support network with helping him remain professional.
His father, former Stoke City midfielder Rory Delap, was particularly influential.
The striker said his father's experience in football helped him handle the uncertainty surrounding his future.
No regrets despite difficult Chelsea spell
Delap attracted interest from Manchester United and Everton before choosing Chelsea following an impressive campaign with Ipswich.
Although he struggled to establish himself in west London, he believes the experience contributed to his development.
"I'll never regret doing anything because it just shapes me as a person," he said.
Delap also reflected on earlier loan spells at Stoke and Preston, explaining that difficult periods had taught him valuable lessons.
He now has another opportunity to establish himself as a Premier League striker at Forest.
Key Points
- Delap admits training separately from Chelsea's squad was frustrating.
- He scored three goals in 47 appearances during his time at Stamford Bridge.
- Forest signed him for £45m plus up to £5m in add-ons.
- The striker insists he has no regrets about joining Chelsea.
What's Next?
Delap returns to former club Ipswich with Nottingham Forest on Friday, offering another opportunity to build on his new start at the City Ground.
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