With an inspiring talent, Finn Delap is on a pathway to creating his own legacy in the world of professional soccer. He is coming out from under the shadow of his father, Rory Delap and brother Liam Delap. Finn was born in Winchester when Rory was playing for Southampton. From being released by Derby County in the summer of 2021, to some of the hardest struggles and happiest victories in his life.
After leaving Derby, Finn signed an apprenticeship with Burton Albion. With this decision opened a new chapter of his career. Rory had closed that chapter with the very same club for the first time in 2013. On 2 July 2023, Finn signed a contract extension to stay with Burton for another two years. This transfer not only reversed his initial deviation from that commitment, but demonstrated Revs’ clear desire to develop more internally.
During Gary Bowyer’s time in charge, Finn’s improvements on the field were impressive. He has played in all but one of the last six games of last season, including one start. This impressive performance proved he could be a valuable addition to the roster. His professional debut came during a 2-1 victory against Bristol Rovers, where he was brought on as a substitute by manager Martin Paterson.
Behind all these accomplishments, Finn met challenges along his path. On loan at Ilkeston Town during the 2022/23 season he fought hard on the pitch in the Southern League Premier Central Division. This experience empowered him to earn indispensable playing time and perception into the dynamics of skilled football.
Finn’s love of football is in his family’s blood. Liam, his younger brother, signed for Chelsea over the summer from Ipswich. He’s certainly making headlines as he’s locking down a position at one of England’s most storied clubs. Sadly, the sibling rivalry has not tempered Finn’s desire to destroy his brother on the field.
“People have put it out there that my dad had a career, my brother is making a career and I can’t let them down,” – Finn Delap.
Finn’s love for football greats such as Maradona and Ronaldinho has inspired his unique style of play. As a kid, he looked up to Sergio Ramos and Pepe of Real Madrid. Their tenacity and creativity led him to create his own style of play. He started out on his footballing travels at Derby in his formative years. The transition occurred shortly after the family moved due to Rory’s transfer to Stoke City.
Finn is literally climbing his way up the Burton corporate ladder. He has been playing for Mickleover in the first half of this 2023/24 season. He’s begun the 2024/25 campaign out on loan at non-league Buxton, currently competing in the National League North. There, he continues to develop his skills and earn important experience.
“Knowing he was going to be here this year was massive for me. I had a good run at the end of the season and speaking to him over the summer period, he was very keen on me staying. There was no other decision for me after that chat,” – Finn Delap.
Even with the expectations of living up to his family legacy, Finn is intent on crafting his own path. In her, he recognizes the competitive drive instilled by childhood alongside Liam.
“It would always be competitive when we’d play head tennis or practice shooting in the garden, but there’d be a spark to it. There was always someone kicking someone!” – Finn Delap.
Finn’s fierce drive shines through as he travels the intoxicating path of triumph and failure. He understands that going through obstacles is just as important to development.
“That’s had the biggest influence on me and I’m so grateful it happened. I jumped straight into it and loved every minute,” – Finn Delap.
The season ahead will be another chance for Finn to lay out a stronger case. Having already featured six times in all competitions for Burton this season, he’s becoming something of a regular in the Bantams’ lineup. That illustrates he’s earned the trust for more responsibility within the rotation.
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