Joe Cole gives advice to Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson after the ‘stick’ he’s received

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Joe Cole has offered some advice for Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson to help him deal with the criticism he’s received so far in English football.

Nicolas Jackson, 23, has certainly had an up and down time so far at Chelsea.

His goal record of 21 goals in 50 Blues appearances since he joined in the summer of 2023 is pretty eye-catching, but he’s certainly still had plenty of critics from pundits and supporters to go along with that.

There’s certainly big pressure on the individual that leads the line at Stamford Bridge because of the amount that have failed in recent times. However, we’re now starting to feel like Jackson is the real deal and a potential long-term solution.

Tim Sherwood claims Jackson doesn’t get the credit he deserves, but he’s winning over people with these improved performances this season. Currently, he’s scored four goals in the opening five Premier League matches.

• READ MORE: Craig Burley shares what’s really ‘surprised’ him about Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson this season

Joe Cole advice for Nicolas Jackson

Joe Cole is delighted to see the form of Chelsea’s Jackson. He’s advised him to be confident and to keep developing areas of his game.

When discussing Jackson via TNT Sports, Cole said: “He’s come in for a lot of stick.

“He’s a young striker learning his trade, and he’s learning it on the biggest stage. He’s scoring goals. The one thing is, I hope he’s confident. He’s had a great start, a great pre-season, and took his second goal at West Ham brilliantly.

“Just keep developing, keep learning, keep improving your game. You’ve worked so hard for the team. The manager clearly believes in him. He’s in a good place.”

There’s no room to let up

The best thing at Chelsea right now is the fantastic competition for places, especially in the forward areas. It now feels like Blues head coach Enzo Maresca has two great options per position on the pitch.

When it comes to the central striker role, Jackson is currently the starter in the best XI. He’s got teammate Christopher Nkunku fast breathing down his neck, though.

Nkunku’s success in front of goal has largely come in cup competitions so far this campaign, scoring five of his six goals in cup matches. In contrast, Jackson has scored exclusively in the Premier League so far.

There’s been periods of time recently when Chelsea have struggled to find one top-class striker in their squad, but do they now have two at the same time?