In the high-stakes world of modern football, talent is everywhere—but true greatness often comes down to one elusive quality: instinct. According to former Premier League striker Troy Deeney, it’s this very trait that sets Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap apart from his peers, drawing comparisons to some of the greatest forwards the game has ever seen.
Speaking recently on talkSPORT, Deeney heaped praise on the 21-year-old striker, identifying a shared characteristic he believes Delap has in common with Thierry Henry, Wayne Rooney, and Ian Wright: natural, fearless instinct in front of goal.
> “He’s got that thing you just can’t teach,” Deeney said. “It’s not just pace or power—it’s that gut-level ability to sniff out a chance and finish it. That’s what Henry had, what Rooney had, what Wright lived off. And Liam has it too.”
Delap, who has notched 12 goals this season in his debut Premier League campaign with Ipswich Town, has been one of the standout young performers in the league. Despite Ipswich’s relegation struggles, the young striker continues to thrive, catching the attention of top clubs including Manchester United, who are reportedly monitoring his £30 million release clause.
While comparisons to legends might seem premature, Deeney argues that Delap’s movement, confidence, and fearless decision-making in the box put him on a unique trajectory.
> “What people don’t realize about Wrighty or Rooney is how brave they were in their movement. Liam’s got that same drive. He doesn’t wait for the game to come to him—he takes it by the scruff of the neck. That’s rare.”
Delap’s rapid rise isn’t just about his finishing, either. Coaches and analysts have noted his off-the-ball intelligence, aggressive pressing, and mature link-up play—skills honed during his time in the Manchester City youth setup.
As Ipswich fights to retain its Premier League status, Delap remains central to their hopes. But whether they stay up or not, it’s becoming increasingly clear that his future lies among the elite.
> “Liam Delap’s got that thing,” Deeney concluded. “And that thing? That’s what makes legend
