"This is Liam," Enzo Maresca said with a slight smile on his face. He knew exactly what sort of match his Chelsea centre-backs would be in for against Ipswich Town.

"I know Liam from some time ago," Maresca continued. "Probably in some moments we can defend a bit better but congratulations to him and to them."

Delap had just inspired Ipswich to a famous 2-0 win over Chelsea, who were below-par on the evening, on Monday night. The 21-year-old striker opened the scoring early on after winning a penalty and then converting the spot-kick.

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It was a Man of the Match performance from the striker, who worked with Maresca during their days at the Manchester City academy, and it came at a very telling time with the January transfer window now open. As revealed last month, football.london understands Chelsea hold an interest in Delap, although the Blues are understood not to be the only potential suitors.

A move for Delap is deemed unlikely this month with Ipswich desperate to keep hold of their star striker as they bid to avoid relegation from the Premier League. However, if Chelsea do not move for another striker this month, then it is a situation that could open up when the summer transfer window comes around.

Delap, though, is just focused on the task at hand at Portman Road. Speaking to Suffolk News, the striker said: "I don't really look at things like that. So, yes, I'm just focused on Ipswich.

"We are lucky to be playing in the Premier League. I think we've got a great opportunity here at Ipswich and we're just trying to show our ability week in, week out, that is a big plus for me."

Chelsea currently have Nicolas Jackson, Christopher Nkunku and Marc Guiu as their centre-forward options. Jackson is first-choice and has had a wonderful season to date, although his performance levels have dropped off in the last three matches - along with the rest of the team.

Maresca does not see Nkunku as a natural No.9 but has chosen to use the France international there on numerous occasions this season. Meanwhile, Guiu has bags of talent but is still seemed as a raw prospect and has not been trusted in the Premier League this term.