Ipswich Fans’ Fury: Liam Delap Faces Backlash Over Deleted Instagram Post Amid Everton Links
Ipswich Town fans are up in arms following a controversial moment involving their star striker, Liam Delap, whose now-deleted Instagram post has sparked outrage and calls from some supporters for him to “never play again.” The 22-year-old forward, who has been a bright spark in an otherwise challenging Premier League campaign for the Tractor Boys, found himself at the center of a storm as transfer rumors linking him to Everton intensified. While the specifics of the post remain speculative, its fallout has ignited a heated debate among fans and raised questions about Delap’s future at Portman Road.
Details surrounding Delap’s deleted Instagram post are murky, as the content was removed swiftly, leaving fans to piece together the controversy through screenshots and word-of-mouth. Reports suggest the post may have included a cryptic message or imagery that some interpreted as a lack of commitment to Ipswich, especially amid growing speculation about a potential move to Everton. With the Toffees reportedly eyeing the young striker to bolster their attack, the timing couldn’t have been worse for Delap, who has been a fan favorite for his goal-scoring heroics this season.
The post’s deletion did little to quell the anger, as supporters took to social media platforms like X to express their frustration. One fan wrote, “Delap’s head’s already at Everton. That post was a disgrace—don’t want him near the shirt again.” Another added, “He’s been our best player, but you don’t disrespect the club like that. Done with him.” While not all fans echoed this extreme sentiment, the backlash highlighted the emotional investment Ipswich supporters have in their team, particularly during a season teetering on the brink of relegation.
Liam Delap has been a revelation for Ipswich since joining from Manchester City last summer for a reported £20 million. With 12 goals in 33 appearances, he’s carried the team’s attacking hopes in a campaign where survival looks increasingly unlikely. His pace, physicality, and clinical finishing have drawn comparisons to modern Premier League strikers, earning him plaudits and attention from bigger clubs.
Everton’s interest, as reported by outlets like the Liverpool Echo, comes as no surprise. The Toffees are preparing for a transitional summer, with Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s contract nearing its end and loanee Armando Broja failing to make an impact. Delap’s reported £30 million relegation release clause—activated if Ipswich go down—makes him an attractive target for David Moyes’ side, who are looking to build around young, dynamic talent at their new Bramley-Moore Dock stadium.
However, the transfer talk has unsettled some Ipswich fans, who see Delap as the cornerstone of their squad. The Instagram post, perceived as a sign of wavering loyalty, has only fueled fears that the England Under-21 international is already looking elsewhere.
While some fans are ready to cast Delap out, others have come to his defense, urging perspective. “He’s 22, he’s human, and he’s carrying our attack single-handedly,” one supporter posted on X. “Give him a break—players make mistakes.” Another pointed out the harsh realities of modern football: “If we go down, he’s gone anyway. Can’t blame him for keeping his options open.”
Manager Kieran McKenna has also weighed in, attempting to diffuse the situation. Speaking ahead of a recent match, he said, “Liam’s fully focused on Ipswich. He’s a young player learning to navigate the pressures of the game. We’re lucky to have him.” McKenna’s comments reflect a pragmatic view, acknowledging Delap’s importance while sidestepping the social media controversy.
The uproar over Delap’s Instagram post underscores the intense emotions surrounding Ipswich’s precarious position in the Premier League. Sitting 12 points from safety with just seven games left, relegation looms large. For fans, Delap represents both hope and heartbreak—a talisman who could lead them to miracles but also a reminder of the club’s vulnerability to losing talent if they drop to the Championship.
The Everton links add another layer of complexity. While Delap’s reported preference for a club offering European football might rule out a move to Goodison Park, the speculation keeps his future in the spotlight. Other clubs, including Chelsea, Manchester United, and Tottenham, have also been mentioned, with a £30 million release clause seen as a bargain for a player of his potential.
As the dust settles on the Instagram saga, Delap’s immediate focus will likely be on proving his commitment on the pitch. With crucial matches ahead, including clashes against top-half sides, his goals could yet keep Ipswich’s faint survival hopes alive. For fans, the question is whether they can forgive what many see as a momentary lapse in judgment.
The broader issue, however, is one of inevitability. If Ipswich are relegated, Delap’s departure seems almost certain, Instagram post or not…
