Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca has delivered a concerning injury update on summer signing Liam Delap, confirming the striker will be sidelined for an extended period.

Speaking at his press conference, Maresca revealed the length of Delap’s absence: “Liam, I think, is (out) around 10-12 weeks,” the Chelsea head coach said.

The 22-year-old forward sustained a hamstring injury during the Blues’ Premier League victory over Fulham before the international break. The setback is a blow for both player and club, with Delap having shown flashes of promise in his early Chelsea appearances.

Maresca now faces a testing period in attack, with Joao Pedro the only senior centre-forward at his disposal. The Brazilian will carry much of the goalscoring burden in the coming weeks, while young striker Marc Guiu could be handed further opportunities to impress. Youngster Tyrique George is also an option to provide depth as Maresca navigates a busy schedule.

Delap’s absence will be keenly felt, but it also opens the door for others to step up. Maresca has shown faith in youth since arriving at Stamford Bridge, and the coming months may see more of Chelsea’s young forwards get their chance to shine.