Nicolas Jackson continues to retain the trust as Chelsea’s first-choice striker this season, but his mini drought in front of goal means he’s receiving some criticism.
Blues centre-forward Nicolas Jackson, 23, is certainly an important part of the Chelsea squad right now. He’s made a key contribution with nine goals in 19 Premier League appearances this term.
However, the Senegal international has gone four consecutive league games without a goal. In fact, he’s only netted once in his previous six top-flight matches.
Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca praised Jackson after the weekend’s 1-1 draw with Crystal Palace, even though he managed zero shots on target from four attempts, which ended up costing his side maximum points.
Gary Lineker claims what Chelsea frontman Nicolas Jackson must improve at
Gary Lineker explains that he’s a fan of Chelsea’s Jackson and thinks he’s got the potential to develop into a “top class” player. He insists that the young striker simply must train to improve his finishing, though.
Lineker said on The Rest Is Football: “I think with Jackson there’s a lot of good in his game. The way he spins, his movement is really good… I don’t think he’s a natural finisher, but if you work at it and train on all those things. If he can improve that facet of his game, I mean, he could be top class. He’s still obviously very young, so that improvement can come.”
Chelsea have been linked with numerous forwards in the transfer rumour mill, but it’s Jackson who is currently in the role as the club’s main No.9.
Back in December, Noni Madueke agreed Chelsea’s Jackson is the Premier League’s best striker. He’s certainly been in the conversation this season, especially before the goals dried up in recent weeks.
However, if Jackson wants to be regarded as one of the best strikers in the sport, he’s got to find more consistency in front of goal to match his exquisite all-round play.
How Nicolas Jackson’s shooting statistics compare from last season to this season
So, has Jackson made any progress as an attacking threat when you compare this season so far to last year’s campaign?
| Season | Shots | Shots on target % | Goal conversion % |
| 2024/25 | 50 | 48% | 18% |
| 2023/24 | 80 | 47.5% | 17.5% |
As you can see above, there’s a very minimal difference in Jackson’s attacking output midway through this term compared to last season. It’s really frustrating to see because it felt like he was turning a corner and becoming a bit more ruthless inside the penalty box.
Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah and Manchester City’s Erling Haaland boast a 24% and 20% goal conversion rate this season, respectively (BBC). Meanwhile, Brentford duo Bryan Mbuemo (37%) and Yoanne Wissa (27%) are even more efficient in front of goal.
Chelsea’s Jackson is young enough and talented enough to improve, but will he ever be a natural goalscorer?
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