Chelsea legend Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink believes Nicolas Jackson’s availability will be crucial for the club’s chances of qualifying for the Champions League.
The Senegalese international is expected to return to fitness for the Blues’ next game against Tottenham next month and speaking exclusively to Chelsea News (courtesy of Gambling Zone), Hasselbaink said:
“After the international week, Jackson is back. I think he will give the team more energy and more opportunities and that will make it a little bit easier for the attacking players because opposition defenders do tend to focus on him, which will give more space to other players.”
“I’m confident that they’re going to be in the top four or five, as it’s looking increasingly likely that England will be awarded five spots in the Champions League. If Chelsea qualify for the Champions League and they win the Europa Conference League, it’s been a very successful season for Enzo.”
Why has Jackson been sidelined?
The 23-year-old picked up a hamstring problem during the first half of the 2-1 win over West Ham last month. He played on before being substituted.
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It was initially believed to be a minor injury but Jackson was later ruled out for a couple of months with his return pencilled in for after the current international break.
Where are Chelsea in the standings?
The Blues are currently sitting in 4th place, 5 points behind Nottingham Forest in 3rd and a point ahead of Manchester City in 5th. However, Newcastle (who are currently sitting 6th) do have a game in hand.
There is no doubt that Enzo Maresca’s side have missed a focal point up front recently, and if they are to maintain their position in the table and qualify for next season’s Champions League, Jackson could play an instrumental role.
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