Liam Rosenior backs Liam Delap to "really take off" next season at Chelsea

Chelsea paid 30 million pounds to sign Delap from Ipswich Town last summer, fighting off interest from several Premier League rivals to secure the 23-year-old's signature. 

The move was viewed as a major step in the striker's development, but his first campaign in blue has proved challenging.

Delap has scored just two goals in 24 appearances in all competitions. Injuries have disrupted his rhythm, and when available he has struggled to nail down a regular starting place. With Joao Pedro in strong form, Delap has often had to settle for a role from the bench.

Former defender Jamie Carragher recently suggested the move may have come too soon, arguing that stepping up to a club of Chelsea's stature was a significant jump.

Yet Rosenior has publicly backed the England Under-21 international to grow into the role.

"If you look at most players' careers, after they have joined a club, it's the second season they really take off," he told Chelsea's official website.

"For Liam, he's had some really, really good performances, but also his rhythm has been interrupted by injury. I'm really happy with Joao and really happy with Liam.

"I think Marc Guiu, when we've called upon him, has been very good, and that needs to continue for us to be successful."

Delap did impress in a recent outing against Hull, but competition for places is only set to increase. Emmanuel Emegha will arrive in the summer from RC Strasbourg Alsace after signing a seven-year contract, having scored 14 Ligue 1 goals last season under Rosenior.

The message from Chelsea is clear: Delap's first season may have stalled, but the club believe his breakthrough is still to come.