Nottingham Forest striker Liam Delap has revealed how his difficult spell at Chelsea helped him develop, while reaffirming his ambition to earn a first senior England call-up.
The 23-year-old joined Forest in August for £45 million plus a potential £5 million in bonuses, having scored just twice in 41 appearances for Chelsea last season.
He has since found the net three times in the Premier League, including a brace in Forest's 3-1 victory over his former club Manchester City on 7 November.
Delap explains lessons from difficult Chelsea spell
Delap moved to Chelsea from Ipswich Town for £30 million in June 2025, but struggled to establish himself at Stamford Bridge.
Speaking on talkSPORT's White and Jordan show, the striker admitted that his disappointing campaign had tested his mentality.
"When things don't go so well, you learn a lot," he said.
"You're sitting there sometimes, frustrated and angry. But you've just got to get through those moments because football's not a linear path."
"I think it grows you as a man more than anything, to be honest, just staying focused and concentrating on yourself."
Delap has begun rebuilding his confidence under Forest manager Oliver Glasner.
His two goals against Manchester City helped secure Forest's first home Premier League victory of the season and lifted the club out of the relegation zone.
Jair Cunha opened the scoring before Delap doubled the lead. Rayan Cherki pulled one back for City, but Delap struck again in the second half.
Forest striker determined to earn England opportunity
Delap's improved form has strengthened his hopes of eventually representing England at senior level.
He has scored 14 goals in 38 appearances across England's youth teams but was not included in Thomas Tuchel's squad for November's matches against Croatia and Spain.
Asked whether a senior call-up remained his ambition, Delap replied:
"Yeah, 100 per cent, it's the ambition as a little kid."
"I've just got to focus on what I can control, focus on game by game at Forest, and then see what happens."
Harry Kane remains England's established first-choice striker, meaning Delap faces significant competition.
However, his recent performances provide encouragement as he attempts to build a stronger case for international recognition.
Key Points
- Delap admits his difficult Chelsea spell left him frustrated but helped him mature.
- Forest signed him for £45 million plus £5 million in potential bonuses.
- The striker has three league goals this season and remains determined to represent England.
What's Next?
Delap will aim to maintain his goalscoring form when Forest return to Premier League action, with consistent performances offering his best route into Tuchel's England plans.
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