Arsenal legend, Ian Wright, has recently showered praise on the young Chelsea star, Nicolas Jackson. The 22-year-old Senegalese international has been making waves in his debut season with the Blues and Wright believes that under the right guidance, Jackson could truly flourish.
Jackson made his move to Chelsea from Villareal last summer. Despite not being initially planned as a key player in the attack line-up for Chelsea's campaign this season, he ended up leading it for most of his debut year. This unexpected turn of events showcases both Jackson's adaptability and potential.
The young striker managed to net an impressive total of 13 goals across all competitions during this period. Ten out of these were scored in Premier League matches alone. While there is room for improvement when it comes to his play within the box, he has demonstrated remarkable ability outside it.
Jackson brings unique versatility to the table
One of Jackson's standout qualities is his versatility on-field. He has shown great skill by stretching teams with his pace and creating opportunities through effective hold-up and link-up play. Moreover, despite being a forward by trade, he also played on the left wing at times throughout this season - a role we might see him reprising more often next year.
However promising these attributes may be though; they haven't shielded him from criticism entirely.
Despite having an overall successful first campaign with Chelsea, Jackson faced criticism for missing several scoring opportunities - most notably during their FA Cup semi-final defeat against Manchester City at Wembley Stadium.
Wrights thinks Jackson needs right manager to succeed
Yet Arsenal legend Ian Wright remains optimistic about Jackson’s future prospects stating that "this guy has got something." He believes that under proper management and guidance; these minor flaws can be ironed out to unlock Jackson's full potential.
Ian Wright, Arsenal legend, said:
“I’m seeing Nicolas Jackson by the way. I watched him fully again against Aston Villa and I have watched him in the last three or four games and the chances that he has missed always take precedent when people are talking about him, but I am seeing that guy’s pace, his link, his touch.
“Something is happening, if he gets that goalscoring right there is something in there, I’m telling you. He did some brilliant stuff. I have seen flashes that under the right manager, and if he has the energy and the mind and personality for it, this guy has got something. I am telling you.”
Nicolas Jackson has shown immense promise in his debut season with Chelsea. His versatility, pace, and ability to create chances are all attributes that suggest he could become an integral part of the team. However, to truly make a lasting impact at Stamford Bridge and silence his critics once and for all, he needs to work on improving his finishing skills.
With the right guidance from management and continued hard work on his part, there is no doubt that this young star has a bright future ahead of him in the world of football.
