Chelsea: Mikel John Obi makes Liam Delap prediction after fans are denied dream Victor Osimhen signing

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Evening Standard

·17 June 2025

Chelsea: Mikel John Obi makes Liam Delap prediction after fans are denied dream Victor Osimhen signing

Former Blues midfielder has commented again on the striker situation after Liam Delap’s arrival

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Former Chelsea midfielder Mikel John Obi says he expects Nicolas Jackson to start next season as the first-choice striker after revealing supporters wanted Victor Osimhen signed instead of Liam Delap.

Chelsea completed a £30m deal for Delap earlier in the month after activating the release clause in the striker’s contract at Ipswich following their relegation from the Premier League.

The 22-year-old made his Blues debut as a substitute in their 2-0 Club World Cup win over LAFC, claiming an assist for Enzo Fernandez to seal all three points with around 10 minutes left to play.

Despite the instant impact, Mikel - who told Standard Sport about his reservations regarding the Delap signing - has stated that Osimhen was the more popular choice amongst the fanbase.

Speaking on DAZN, he said: “We need someone to come in, score goals and finish those chances

“Obviously, he [Delap] isn't the guy the fans wanted. We know who the fans wanted.

“The fans wanted Victor Osimhen to come to the club but he didn't. Obviously the club decided to go with Delap. He's young, he's gonna get better.

“Hopefully he hits the ground running and then he's gonna quieten those doubters. I wish him well, I hope he succeeds at this club. I think he can.

“The runs I saw today, running behind defenders, I think he can be the guy to finish those chances.”

Liam Delap replaced Nicolas Jackson for his Chelsea debut

Chelsea FC via Getty Images

Whilst Delap showed promise on his Chelsea bow, Mikel has predicted that Jackson will be tasked with leading the line when the Premier League season gets underway.

“But, Nic Jackson, let's not forget, I still think he will be the main man,” Mikel added. “He just needs to work on his finishing. I still think he's gonna be the guy to start the season.

“During the season, if he's not scoring then Delap gets his opportunity. Healthy competition is really important.”