Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Chelsea fans will be wondering what the dynamic between Nicolas Jackson and Xabi Alonso is like.
Last summer, Jackson’s relationship with former Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca completely broke down before the striker joined Bayern Munich on a season-long loan.
Alonso’s appointment as Chelsea boss represents a bit of a fresh start for Jackson, though, who does appear to be getting along with the 44-year-old.
Nicolas Jackson's and Liam Delap's stats
Credit: Jonathan Moscrop/Visionhaus via Getty Images
Nicolas Jackson enjoyed working under Xabi Alonso during Chelsea’s pre-season tour
According to The Sun, Jackson enjoyed working under Alonso during Chelsea’s pre-season tour and wants to fight for a place in the Spaniard’s squad.
It gives Chelsea a decision to make, as they already have plenty of other centre-forward options.
Joao Pedro is the team’s first-choice striker, with Liam Delap backing him up last season. Since then, Emmanuel Emegha has officially joined the club, while Marc Guiu is still on the books.
Nicolas Jackson and Liam Delap of Chelsea
Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
There will have to be at least a couple of exits between now and the end of the transfer window. But it seems as though Jackson’s preference is to remain at Stamford Bridge.
Jackson has been linked to Tottenham Hotspur, so that could be one option for him if he does have to leave Chelsea this summer.
What Nicolas Jackson did well in pre-season friendlies
Alonso would have been impressed with what he saw from Jackson during Chelsea’s pre-season tour.
The 25-year-old was unable to score, but he did create chances in each of the games he played.
As per Sofascore, Jackson made one key pass against Juventus, two against AC Milan and four against Johor Darul Ta’zim. He also created one big chance in the 3-0 victory over Milan.
That should not be too much of a surprise. Jackson has always been good at bringing his teammates into play and creating opportunities for them.
Where the Senegal international has disappointed in the past is in front of goal. If he can improve there, you would probably be looking at one of the best No.9s in the world.