THE Republic of Ireland international completed a remarkable comeback from a potentially career ending injury to captain Stoke City back into the top flight.
Having joined the club on loan in November 2006 from Sunderland, Delap broke his leg on his home debut against, ironically, the Black Cats.
Tony Pulis stayed true to his word and signed Delap permanently in January.
The former Derby County player battled back to regain full fitness and made 46 appearances last season.
Famed for his long throw-ins, Delap played a crucial role in Stoke’s promotion once he had totally regained match fitness.
Following Andy Griffin’s injury, Delap took over the captaincy and saw the Potters past the finishing line and back into the top flight.
Capped 11 times by Ireland, Delap began his career at his home town club, Carlisle United, before moving on to Derby County in a £200,000 deal.
It was at County where he made a name for himself and prompted then Southampton boss Stuart Gray to pay £4 million to take him to the South Coast.
After five seasons at Southampton, Delap went back North to join Sunderland on a free transfer.

Rory Delap news »