Ivorian former international Didier Drogba has expressed his support for a player currently under criticism at Chelsea.
In Saturday’s FA Cup semi-final, Chelsea narrowly lost to Manchester City (1-0). The outcome might have been different if Nicolas Jackson, leading the line in Chelsea’s 4-2-3-1 formation, had converted his numerous clear chances against the City goalkeeper. After missing yet another one-on-one opportunity with Stefan Ortega, the Senegalese international (with 12 caps) notably squandered a golden opportunity by sending a header straight at the German keeper.
Drogba comforts Jackson
Following the defeat, former Chelsea captain and manager Frank Lampard criticized the Djibonker-born forward for his lack of cutting edge. “I feel a bit sorry for him because he made a lot of good movements. He’s a young striker. The attributes we saw in him today when he’s running at Kyle Walker: he showed pace, good movements.
But there’s a technical detail there, the extra touch, the decision-making at the highest level in these high-level matches make the difference. The header, if you touch it anywhere but on his body, it’s a goal. We’ve all been through it, we’ve all missed chances, and it’s a crucial chance for the game. But as a young player, that’s the level you have to reach to be a Chelsea striker,” criticized the Englishman on BBC.
As he has the chance to redeem himself this Tuesday in the league derby against Arsenal, Nico Jackson can rely on the support of another club legend in the person of Didier Drogba. Via his official X account (formerly Twitter), the Ivorian came to the 22-year-old’s rescue. “Keep your head up and never stop working hard, it will pay off,” he posted. Also supported on Monday by his coach Mauricio Pochettino, the main player will appreciate the backing.
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