Liam Delap backed to become Harry Kane's England understudy by Jamie Carragher as Thomas Tuchel begins work as Three Lions boss

Ipswich Town closed out 2024 with an impressive 2-0 victory over Chelsea, marking their first Premier League win at Portman Road since 2002. This landmark win capped off a stellar season for Delap, who has silenced critics after initially facing scepticism over his £20 million ($25m) transfer from Manchester City in the summer. Many doubted his ability to adapt to the Premier League given his underwhelming performances in the Championship during stints with Stoke, Preston, and Hull.

Despite the doubts, Delap has been a revelation for Ipswich, directly contributing to half of their 18 league goals this season. In fact, with seven goals and two assists to his name, the young forward has become the driving force behind Ipswich's attack.

Given his form, it was little surprise that Carragher singled him out as a potential candidate who could fill Kane's shoes for England in the years to come.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Carragher observed: "Centre-forward, you've got Harry Kane but after him, you've Ollie Watkins. You know he is a really good Premier League striker but I wouldn't say absolute elite. Harry's obviously getting to that stage in his career where people would probably start questioning whether should he be in the team. Should he not? So you're thinking who's the next generation of strikers?

"He (Delap) is a handful. he is one of those ones where you wouldn't think to play against him every week. Whether he'll have in the end, maybe the finesse or class that you need to be England's striker, we'll see. But he certainly looks a rough diamond."

Having represented England at every age group since the Under-16s, Delap appears well-positioned to transition into the senior national squad. His current tally of seven Premier League goals is the highest for any player from the three promoted clubs this season, further solidifying his credentials. With England lacking a clear successor to Kane, Delap’s development has come at a crucial time.

Delap’s next opportunity to shine will come on Sunday as Ipswich face Fulham in their next Premier League match.