Former Chelsea and Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge has hit back at criticism surrounding striker Nicolas Jackson. He believes the Senegal international has room for improvement but has been excellent for the Blues overall.
Jackson scored for the west London side in their clash against Liverpool at Anfield in the Premier League on Sunday, October 20. After Mohamed Salah had given the hosts the lead in the 29th minute via a penalty, Jackson equalized in the 48th minute. However, Curtis Jones' goal just three minutes later sealed the win for the Reds.
After the game, Daniel Sturridge spoke about Jackson's importance to Enzo Maresca's side and how he's been unfairly criticised. He said (via Chelseafc Latest News):
"Nicolas Jackson is crucial to Chelsea’s system. He’s capable of dropping into a false nine role and his finish against Liverpool was outstanding—calm, composed, and clinical in front of goal.”
“I’m not focused on his statistics. I’m looking at his overall play, and what he brings to the team is immense. It’s unfair to compare him to the likes of Drogba, Anelka, or Crespo—those are world-class names. Jackson needs time, and I think we’ve been too critical.”
Jackson has now scored five goals and provided three assists in nine games across competitions for the west London side this season.
Pundit hails Nicolas Jackson's improvement after his goal for Chelsea against Liverpool
The Blues signed Nicolas Jackson from Villarreal for a reported fee of £32 million in the summer of 2023. He scored 17 goals and provided six assists in 44 games across competitions but came under criticism for missing many big chances.
Pundit Leon Osman believes Jackson has shown improvement under Enzo Maresca this season. He said after the striker's performance against Liverpool (via The Chelsea Chronicle):
“He’s starting to look like a quality striker Nicolas Jackson. His runs have always been good — even if he did get caught offside quite a bit — but now his finishing is improving as well.”
Jackson played the entire 90 minutes against Liverpool and scored a goal. As per Sofascore on October 21 (12 pm IST), he completed 7/11 passes, hit the woodwork once, completed 1/2 dribble attempts, and won 1/3 duels.
Jackson and Chelsea will now shift their attention to the UEFA Europa Conference League, where they will face Panathinaikos away on Thursday, October 24.