Nicolas Jackson
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Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson has been notably absent from the matchday squad for the club’s opening two Premier League fixtures, raising questions about his future at Stamford Bridge. With the transfer window closing in less than ten days, the situation surrounding Jackson’s potential departure has become a focal point of discussion among fans and pundits alike.
Paul Merson said: “He’s a bit messy and sometimes he’ll go through and his touch will be poor, but I’d love to play with him. The position I used to play, I love players like that who want to run that way [forwards]. They open the game up. If he can get to Aston Villa or a Newcastle, I’d buy him all day long. I would buy him. He’s willing, I like him even though he’s a little bit messy.”
Merson continued: “He needs a little bit more coaching, but he’s got the potential… I don’t think there would be too many centre-backs going, ‘That was easy’, because he gives you a hard time and he’s always willing to run. I’m pretty shocked with Chelsea. I thought he made Palmer and Palmer made Jackson, I thought they worked as a real pair and stretched the game and it got Palmer on the ball and let him do his stuff.”
He added: “I know we’re only one game in but, all of a sudden, Palmer’s going further and further back to get the ball and you don’t want him there. You want him around the box where he can weave his magic because he has the X-factor. I don’t think this is a great move for Chelsea at all. I think so [they’re making a mistake]. 10 or in midfield, I’d have loved to have played with Jackson.”
Jackson, who has reached double figures in goals during both his seasons in England, has a contract with Chelsea that extends until 2033. Despite his potential, Chelsea’s decision to exclude him from recent matches has fueled speculation about a possible transfer. Paul Merson, a lifelong Chelsea supporter, has been vocal about his admiration for Jackson’s qualities, particularly his speed and movement, which he believes would be well-suited to teams like Aston Villa or Newcastle United.
Merson’s comments highlight the striker’s potential and the surprise at Chelsea’s apparent readiness to part ways with him. As the transfer window deadline approaches, the club’s decision on Jackson’s future remains a topic of keen interest.
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