“Created a monster” – Ex-Super Eagles captain lauds rejuvenated Chelsea star Nicolas Jackson

Former Super Eagles midfielder Mikel Obi has lauded Chelsea star Nicolas Jackson following his improved form at the club this season, Soccernet.ng reports.

Jackson joined Chelsea from Spanish La Liga club Villarreal last season. The Senegal international was largely untested, as he had just one season of top-flight football before making the big switch, but he fit in with Chelsea’s policy of signing young players from clubs across Europe.

Last season, Jackson struggled at Chelsea. He had a penchant for missing players, even in crucial games. Although he registered 17 goals and six assists in 44 appearances, it was still a disappointing campaign for the Senegalese star.

Former Super Eagles captain Mikel Obi has been critical of Jackson since last season. He has even urged the club to sign another striker to give the team an extra bite in the final third.

However, Jackson has shut his critics down with his impressive displays since the start of the campaign. He has registered four goals and two assists in five Premier League games this season. Last weekend at West Ham, the Senegal international registered two goals and an assist to help Chelsea to a comfortable 3-win.

Following Jackson’s impressive performances, Mikel, who was critical of him, has taken a U-turn to praise the Chelsea star.

“We are here to help the players, we’re not here to criticize players to put them down. If the players are listening and taking what we are saying and try to improve, that’s what I want,” Mikel said on the ObiOne podcast.

“I’m sure the players want the best for Chelsea, Nicolas Jackson wants the best for Chelsea. I’ve said time and again that there is a player there, and it’s amazing to see that he’s taking what I’ve been saying on board to improve.

“The way he scored the two goals (against West Ham) were fantastic. The way he finished the first goal and the second goal just shows that there’s someone trying to improve in scoring goals.”

“After four minutes, people were saying, ‘Mikel you’ve created an absolute monster of a striker’. And that’s what I want. The guy is scoring goals, he’s doing well and we’re winning games.”

Jackson’s rejuvenation has also coincided with Chelsea’s upturn in form. He will be looking to continue with his impressive performances and spur the Blues to a good finish in the Premier League.

This post was last modified on September 25, 2024 9:21 am

Kelvin Omachonu

Kelvin Omachonu is a writer with many years of experience covering sports events in Nigeria and abroad. He is fueled by his love for the job, and is dedicated to delivering captivating stories.

Share
Published by
Kelvin Omachonu

Recent Posts

Ajax vs Galatasaray: Victor Osimhen scores again, but toothless Lions lose record in Amsterdam

Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen was on target for Galatasaray, but his goal was not… Read More

5 hours ago

Super Eagles call-up? Nathan Tella breaks silence on Chelle’s selection

Super Eagles winger Nathan Tella has expressed his desire to return to the Nigerian national… Read More

11 hours ago

Can Akpom save Van Nistelrooy’s job? Leicester close in on Super Eagles-eligible striker

Leicester City are edging closer to securing the signing of Super Eagles-eligible striker Chuba Akpom… Read More

13 hours ago

Napoli reject first official bid for Galatasaray’s Victor Osimhen amid Arsenal and Man United link

Napoli have turned down an initial €65 million bid from Galatasaray for Victor Osimhen, with… Read More

15 hours ago

Sevilla FC: Nigerian prospect Ola Great receives trial invitation from La Liga club

Nigerian footballer Ola Great has received an official trial invitation from the Spanish La Liga… Read More

16 hours ago

Former Super Eagles midfielder reveals what Nigeria need to win AFCON 2025

Former Super Eagles midfielder, Sylvanus Okpala, has revealed what the Nigerian team need to emerge… Read More

21 hours ago