Nicolas Jackson enjoyed a stellar start to the Premier League season, smashing home eight goals in his first 12 appearances, alongside three assists. Chelsea were suddenly finding themselves as unlikely title challengers, and Jackson’s link up play with Cole Palmer was proving far too formidable for many Premier League teams.

However, Jackson’s form has significantly slumped and this coincides directly with a poor run form for Chelsea, who have only taken two points from a possible 12, against teams they should be beating if they are to make the top four, let alone challenge for the title.

Falling Into Bad Habits

In the first half of the season, Jackson was consistently finding the net and silencing many of his doubters after an inconsistent debut season. His chance conversion rate had improved, and the cries for Chelsea to sign a recognised number nine were falling silent. Jackson had the full backing of Enzo Maresca, and was holding off competition from the usually-prolific Christopher Nkunku.

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But since being rested for the 5-1 romp of Southampton, the 23-year-old’s familiar frustrations have come back into play. Jackson has only netted once in the past six games – which was a vital winner in the 2-1 victory against Bournemouth. That being said, his overall game is once again coming into question.

Whilst his overall record remains positive this season – nine goals in 19 games with three assists – fans have come to expect more from the striker who clearly has the potential and ability to be a consistent performer for the Blues. However, Jackson is beginning to miss vital chances – a trait which plagued his first season in England. This was once again apparent in the recent 1-1 draw with Crystal Palace, where the Senegalese International missed a vital chance with the scoreline at 1-0 to Chelsea, which would have most likely sealed the victory. The chance was missed, and Palace equalised not long after.

Application and Drive

Despite his recent struggles, Jackson’s commitment, determination and character has never been doubted by the Blues faithful. His holdup play continues to improve, and the relationship with Palmer is still proving fruitful. With Maresca likely to continue sticking with the striker, he’ll continue to get plenty more opportunities to pick up his form, and the upcoming home games against Bournemouth and Wolves provide a perfect opportunity for this.

Jackson will continue to get in the right spot and get chances – given the quality and creativity of attackers behind him, however it remains to be seen how long Maresca will keep him as his first choice should his struggles continue. Nkunku and the 19-year-old Marc Guiu – who has significantly impressed in the UEFA Conference League – will continue to make their case for a starting birth.

It is very telling that Jackson’s drop off of form has directly correlated with Chelsea’s poor recent run, so it’s vital for the whole club that Jackson rediscovers that goalscoring spark sooner rather than later, as the Blues look to solidify a top four position in the second half of the season.

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