Nicolas Jackson was once again on the scoresheet as Chelsea drew 1-1 with Newcastle United
Mauricio Pochettino was full of praise for Nicolas Jackson, who once again found the back of the net as Chelsea drew 1-1 with Newcastle United in a pre-season friendly.
The signing from Villarreal has exhibited his ruthlessness in front of goal, giving Chelsea some sense of optimism as they finally have a striker who can address their goal-scoring issues.
The Senegalese was signed from Villarreal for £30.1m with a little hype, as there were doubts if he was the right player to lead Chelsea’s attacking line. So far, those have been shut down after his heroic performance in the last three games.
Jackson has shown he is a complete striker, from helping in the build-up to scoring goals, as the 22-year-old has registered two goals and two assists in his last three games.
The 51-year-old was much captivated by Jackson’s performance, who may be the last piece of the puzzle, and he was full of admiration for him in his postgame remarks (h/t Metro):
“I think he is good in front of goal, he is very relaxed when given chances and he has shown that in these games. So happy, because a striker needs to score for confidence and trust. La Liga is also competitive but he also needs to adapt to the Premier League. The tempo is higher than La Liga, transitions, being connected with the game.
“They are things that make the Premier League one of the best but one of the most competitive and excellent in terms of physicality and conditioning. Still he needs to improve in his physical condition, it is only the beginning of pre-season and he arrived late, he didn’t start with us in the beginning.”
Given that Jackson is a new signing and has adjusted himself to his new teammates quickly adds to the intrigue. His finishing and ability to link up plays have been superb.
This suggests that we have a talented striker for the upcoming campaign who is prepared to make a mark in the Premier League and could deter Chelsea from going for another number 9. Otherwise, there is a feeling among the fanbase that we need an experienced striker for the time being.
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He has the pace, dribbling and awareness to become the next great striking import from Africa in the Premier League. Hopefully, he dons the Blue shirt for years to come and fulfils his potential here.
Another good performance may force Poch to put him in the starting XI that hosts Liverpool in the Premier League opener on August 13.