Liam Delap handed Chelsea No.12 as striker trains away from main first-team group

Liam Delap has been handed Chelsea’s No.12 shirt for the 2026-27 season after João Pedro took over the No.9, with the striker also currently training away from the club’s main first-team group.

Chelsea confirmed the squad-number changes as part of their preparations for the new campaign. Delap wore No.9 last season but will now switch to No.12, while João Pedro has been given the shirt traditionally associated with the club’s first-choice centre-forward.

The change comes amid growing uncertainty over Delap’s immediate role at Stamford Bridge.

According to The Times, the England striker is currently working in a separate training group from Xabi Alonso’s main first-team cohort alongside Nicolas Jackson and Tosin Adarabioyo. Chelsea have stressed that the arrangement should not be characterised as a “bomb squad”, with the players continuing to train at the same facilities and during the same sessions as the senior group.

Delap, Jackson and Tosin were also absent from Chelsea’s recent friendly against Real Sociedad, adding further attention to their positions within the squad as the club finalise plans for the new Premier League season.

Delap had previously been prepared to remain at Chelsea and compete for his place, but he is now understood to be available should a suitable offer arrive before the transfer window closes.

Competition for attacking roles has increased significantly. João Pedro’s move into the No.9 shirt provides a clear indication of his status in the forward line, while Chelsea also have additional central options available following changes to the squad during the summer.

The number switch alone does not confirm that Delap will leave the club, and Chelsea have made no announcement regarding a transfer. However, the combination of his move to No.12, his current training-group status and the increased competition for places has placed his future under greater scrutiny.

For now, Delap remains a Chelsea player, but his position within the first-team hierarchy appears less secure as the club approach the start of the new season.