Delap close to Chelsea return, says Maresca

Enzo Maresca, Chelsea's manager, stated on Friday that Liam Delap may return sooner than planned for the League Cup encounter with Wolves next week.

The forward initially faced a recovery period extending into November or December following an August hamstring injury, yet this forecast has been updated.

Since transferring to Chelsea from Ipswich in June for a £30 million ($40 million) fee, the 22 year old has appeared in merely three Premier League fixtures and remains without a goal in the top division.

"Liam participated in the team's training session for the initial time yesterday," Maresca remarked, as his squad prepares to welcome Sunderland on Saturday.

"He will not feature in tomorrow's match, though he is likely ready for the subsequent one.

"Recovery timelines can adjust marginally, contingent on advancement or regression. At first, they projected availability around October 25, whereas today marks October 24. (Next week) he should be fit."

During Delap's unavailability, Maresca has rotated several attackers, encompassing recent addition Joao Pedro and emerging academy talent Tyrique George.

Following Delap's setback, youthful striker Marc Guiu returned from Sunderland and notched his season's opening goal during Wednesday's 5-1 Champions League triumph against Ajax, with Maresca observing that the 19 year old is now delivering the performance levels anticipated.

"I conversed with Marc a fortnight ago. I informed him his training approach displeased me and required alteration," he explained. "He adapted and secured an opportunity (against Ajax). Straightforward as such.

"His sessions lacked quality across the board. I am uncertain (why). With emerging players, a gradual method is occasionally necessary. Post conversation, he excels, he impresses, he trains superbly.

"He is undoubtedly set to begin."

Chelsea occupy fifth place in the Premier League, buoyed by consecutive triumphs, trailing frontrunners Arsenal by five points.