When Nicolas Jackson is likely to play his first minutes of Chelsea’s pre-season after injury woes

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A number of Chelsea’s most important players from last season have so far yet to be involved this summer.

Whether that be as a result of injury or an extended absence due to performances on the international stage, supporters are yet to get a glimpse of anything close to their starting team under Enzo Maresca.

One player who falls into the former category is Nicolas Jackson, who is yet to feature for a minute off the back of an injury he suffered on international duty.

However, it looks as if Chelsea fans will not actually have long to wait now until they see their top striker in action in this pre-season tour.

According to The Athletic, the original plan was for the Senegal international to be involved against Real Madrid on August 6.

Jackson could return for Manchester City friendly

However, it goes on to say that there could be a world where Jackson is involved as soon as the Manchester City friendly which is due to take place on August 3.

The ultimate goal will be to have the forward fit and firing in time for the start of the Premier League season, when City will visit Stamford Bridge.

Marc Guiu impressing for Chelsea

As far as competition for his place goes at the minute, it is coming from perhaps an unlikely candidate in Marc Guiu.

The Spanish youngster has started both friendlies for the club this summer so far; and Maresca has been impressed by Guiu for the impact he has made in such a short space of time.

Another candidate will surely be Christopher Nkunku if Jackson is not fit, with the Frenchman being the only player to score in both of Chelsea’s pre-season tests so far.

Those two players in particular will be looking to keep up their good form for when the next friendly comes around tonight for the Blues against Club America.