Chelsea put out an improved performance to pick up another Premier League victory against Tottenham, with a number of players clearly upping their game to impress Xabi Alonso.
Enzo Fernandez and Andrey Santos scored as the Blues kept their European hopes alive with a 2-1 win, throwing their rivals into a final day relegation fight.
Fernandez in particular drew praise for his performance, while Chelsea fans saw the best of Cole Palmer for the first time in a long while.
What formation do you want to see Xabi Alonso deploy at Chelsea?👀
Feeling a 4-2-3-1!
Liam Delap is in trouble when Xabi Alonso arrives
It was clear the concept of Xabi Alonso played a part in their performances, with some players being handed a rare start to make their mark.
One of those was Liam Delap, who has found starting opportunities hard to come by with the presence of Joao Pedro in the squad.
Unfortunately for the striker, Tuesday’s performance followed a pattern which has emerged for him throughout his time at Chelsea.
He offered no real goal threat, coming towards the end of a season where he has just one Premier League goal to his name.
The Englishman lost eight of his 12 duels up front, and committed three fouls as his discipline came into question once again.
He was booked, with Djed Spence surprised he wasn’t sent off as his elbow caught the Spurs defender in the face.
Does Liam Delap deserve a chance under Xabi Alonso?🤔
Perhaps he can work his magic on him!
Delap’s Chelsea future already in doubt
Despite only joining the club less than a year ago, there are already reports saying Chelsea want to part ways with Delap this summer.
The difference in impact between himself and Pedro has been incredible, and the Blues need some better support for the Brazilian in the role.
Even Xabi Alonso’s hiring has not changed the club’s stance on Delap, with him seemingly happy to let him go too.
It remains to be seen if the Blues sign a striker this summer, but targeting someone with more experience should be their main priority.