Chelsea star urged to abandon England ambitions as Ireland boss pushes for allegiance switch

Ed Griffiths
Thu, 02 Apr 2026 17:06:31 +0000

The Republic of Ireland are pursuing Chelsea forward Liam Delap in a bid to convince him to represent them at international level rather than England.

Assistant coach John O'Shea, the former Manchester United defender, has reached out to the striker's father Rory regarding a potential switch in allegiance.

O'Shea said: "It's in Liam's corner, as they say. Let's wait and see."

The 23-year-old has featured for England across every youth age group from under-15s through to under-21s, yet remains uncapped at senior level.

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Ireland's approach follows their recent World Cup qualification heartbreak, having lost a play-off to Czechia after surrendering a two-goal advantage in Prague.

Ireland manager Heimir Hallgrimsson has publicly addressed the situation, acknowledging that the final decision rests entirely with the player.

"It's a decision that is still just his," the Icelandic coach remarked.

Hallgrimsson pointed to Delap's lack of senior international experience as a factor that could work in Ireland's favour.

He added: "He hasn't played for England and it doesn't look like he is going to the World Cup, it looks like he is far away from that."

"But again it is his decision."

Delap has previously suggested he had ambitions to earn a call-up to the England senior squad.

His eligibility for Ireland comes from his father's international career with the nation.

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Rory Delap, the former Stoke City, Southampton, Derby and Sunderland midfielder renowned for his long throw-ins, earned 11 caps for the Republic over a six-year period during his 19-year playing career.

O'Shea's involvement in the recruitment effort carries additional significance given his history with the Delap family.

The Ireland assistant and former teammate of Rory has taken a personal role in sounding out whether the younger Delap might consider following his father's international path.

Ireland are already looking towards future tournaments despite their recent World Cup disappointment.

Delap's maiden campaign at Stamford Bridge has proved challenging since his £30million summer arrival from Ipswich Town.

A hamstring injury sustained early in the season sidelined the former Manchester City academy product for 11 matches, disrupting any momentum he might have built.

His return came in early November during a Champions League fixture against Qarabag, but consistent playing time has remained elusive.

The striker has managed just two goals across 32 appearances this term, with his most recent strike coming during a 2-1 loss to Fulham at Craven Cottage back in January.