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Tim Sherwood: Nicolas Jackson is Irreplaceable for Chelsea
Tim Sherwood has emphasized the importance of Nicolas Jackson to Chelsea, claiming the Senegalese striker is irreplaceable despite not being a prolific goal scorer. According to Sherwood, Jackson’s ability to create space for teammates like Cole Palmer and Enzo Fernandez makes him a crucial asset for the Blues.
Speaking to Metro, the former Tottenham manager highlighted Jackson’s influence on the team:
"I think Nicolas Jackson has definitely been disrespected. He’s the focal point and a real presence up front. He occupies the center-halves and creates space for players like Palmer and Fernandez. Palmer, in particular, has benefited from the space Jackson creates. Enzo is also more effective as a No. 10 than a No. 8, and he becomes a real goal threat when pushing forward. But Chelsea need someone to lead the line, occupy defenders, and create that space."
Sherwood added that Jackson’s absence has been a significant setback for Chelsea:
"He’s been a huge miss. While he’s not a prolific scorer, he’s certainly a threat, and Chelsea have no one like him to replace him. They’ve tried using Christopher Nkunku and Pedro Neto as a false nine, but it hasn’t worked. Managers sometimes have to find different ways to adapt, but Chelsea has become too predictable without Jackson. They need someone to stretch the defense or hold up the ball, and they’ve lacked that in his absence."
Jackson has contributed nine goals and five assists in 23 Premier League matches this season. Chelsea’s form has dipped significantly in his absence, with the team slipping from second to sixth place at one point last month. Despite being just two points behind Liverpool in December, the Blues now trail the league leaders by 21 points.
Jackson’s Expected Return After International Break
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has confirmed that Nicolas Jackson is set to return after the international break. The striker, who suffered a hamstring injury in the match against West Ham United on February 3, is currently in light training and nearing full recovery. Noni Madueke is also expected to return after the break.
Maresca stated:
"He could be back, probably after the international break. Him and Noni as well. Before the break, we have two games, and then we’ll recover energy and players for the final push of the season."
Chelsea’s upcoming fixtures include a clash with Tottenham on April 3, followed by a match against Brentford on April 6. The Blues also face Legia Warszawa in the first leg of their Conference League quarterfinal on April 10, their only away game in London during April.
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