Even the most optimistic of Ipswich supporter would have been fearing the worst when Liam Delap’s name was not on the teamsheet before kick-off at Stamford Bridge.
The 22-year-old has been a standout performer in an otherwise difficult campaign for Kieran McKenna’s side.
His 12 goals in 30 Premier League appearances have kept the Tractor Boys in contention to retain their top-flight status.
Without him, relegation would have likely been confirmed a while ago.
A rib injury meant Delap was unable to start, with George Hirst taking his place in the starting XI.
In just his second league start of the campaign, Hirst grasped his opportunity.
With the visitors under the cosh in the opening 20 minutes, Hirst showed brilliant hold-up play to relieve the pressure on his side.
Ipswich’s opener came from just that, with Hirst holding up the ball before playing in Johnson down the right to cross for Enciso’s opener.
The 26-year-old showed he is a goal threat, too. With 10 minutes played in the second half, Hirst made a darting run down the line, cut in from the left and whipped a fierce shot that went inches wide of Robert Sanchez’s left-hand post.
Delap eventually replaced Hirst and, despite clearly struggling with his injury, the England U21 striker displayed all the skills that have made him one of the most sought-after strikers in English football.
Should the Tractor Boys go down, Delap will be available for just £30m – a snip for a player of his ability.
Chelsea are one of several Premier League clubs positioning themselves to sign Delap, who will surely move on if and when Ipswich return to the Championship.
The good news for McKenna’s side is that they have shown they can – at least by Sunday’s evidence – live without him.
