Delap's move to Forest is a significant one, given the striker's struggles at Chelsea. Despite being touted as a potential successor to Harry Kane, Delap scored just three goals in 47 appearances for the Blues. His struggles were underpinned by three managerial changes, hamstring and shoulder injuries, and difficulties adjusting to a different gameplan.
At Ipswich, Delap's speed was used effectively by counter-attacking into space behind high defensive lines, allowing him to carry the ball at pace and shoot. However, at Chelsea, the team focused more on building possession, reducing Delap's capacity to carry the ball into space and shoot. As a result, Delap made just six shot-ending carries for Chelsea in the Premier League, compared to 26 for Ipswich and 38 in the previous season with Hull in the Championship.
Delap's shot conversion rate also dropped significantly at Chelsea, from a career-best 17.7% at Ipswich to just 2.8% at Chelsea. His tendency to chase lost causes and commit unnecessary fouls also needs to be addressed.
However, Forest manager Oliver Glasner's man management and tactical set-up are likely to suit Delap's natural assets. Glasner tends to prefer playing without the ball and attacking directly at pace, which should allow Delap to thrive. The Austrian also has recent form for turning around a centre-forward's career, having transformed Jean-Philippe Mateta at Crystal Palace.
Delap's move to Forest will be closely watched, as he looks to reignite his career and prove himself as one of the best young English strikers in the world.