Nicolas Jackson has made it clear that his ambition is to play as Chelsea’s central striker.
It’s been an interesting debut season so far from Nicolas Jackson in Chelsea colours.
The 22-year-old’s shown great versatility to play a variety of different attacking roles, including as a No 9, No 10 or left-winger.
However, he’s explained this week his preferred position is at centre-forward,
We’ve now heard from Jackson that he pictures himself as the central figure to lead the line.
“I’m a striker. Since I came to Spain, I play as a striker. Unai [Emery] put me as a striker, before I was a No.10, and he taught me everything about football,” Jackson told talkSPORT.
“I wasn’t in an academy or anything. Before I was just playing because we had talent and we just play. But Unai put me as a striker and for four years I played as a striker for him. I’m very happy in that position and it’s my preferred position.
MORE CHELSEA STORIES
“It’s just a matter of understanding each other on the pitch and the goals will come, for sure. Unai told me before and Pochettino is telling me again. I’ve been in this situation before.”
Nicolas Jackson wants to play striker
From what we’ve seen of Jackson so far, he does bring a lot to the Blues XI both on and off the ball.
He’s scored nine goals in 27 Blues appearances across all competitions this campaign, which is a bit low based on the number of chances he’s had. If he can sharpen up his finishing, Chelsea may have a special player on their hands.
In fairness, Jackson’s played as the No 9 this year more often than not. He’s great when he does get involved with linking up the play, plus his movement is top notch.
Many Chelsea fans will feel like the club needs to go out and sign a high-profile striker in the summer, but can Jackson change their minds during the next few months?
Speaking via Sky Sports last month, Kalidou Koulibaly insisted that Jackson will come good at Chelsea and be a success. He’ll go a long way to winning over any remaining doubters if he can inspire his side to victory this Sunday in the League Cup final against Liverpool at Wembley Stadium.
