'They will score goals' - Maresca predicts what will happen to Pedro and Delap

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has praised the striking duo of Joao Pedro and Liam Delap following their impressive performances in the Blues’ 4-1 victory over AC Milan at Stamford Bridge over the weekend.

Delap stole the spotlight with a brace, while Pedro also found the back of the net, continuing his prolific start to life at Chelsea.

Since joining the club last month, the 23-year-old has scored five goals in as many matches, including pre-season fixtures against Milan and Bayer Leverkusen.

Maresca expressed his delight with both forwards’ contributions, but also tempered expectations.

“They are both our strikers, we need them scoring goals during the season, and we are very happy with both of them,” Maresca told Chelsea’s official website.

He added, “Liam played some games in the USA [at the Club World Cup] and he scored here today. They have to be without pressure or stress, and they will score goals for sure and miss goals for sure. But at the end, they are going to help us.”

Beyond the goal scorers, Maresca also highlighted strong performances from Cole Palmer and Reece James, as Chelsea continue to look sharp ahead of the new campaign.

Despite having played only two pre-season matches since their Club World Cup participation, the Blues appear well-prepared for the Premier League season, with their attacking options firing early.