A disappointing, toothless display against Brighton in the FA Cup has underscored how essential Nicolas Jackson is to Chelsea’s attacking dynamism, particularly when key forwards are sidelined.
In a frustrating match against Brighton at the Amex Stadium, Chelsea’s inability to effectively break down the opposition’s high press was starkly evident. In the 81st minute, a sequence involving Tyrique George and Enzo Fernandez led to Christopher Nkunku receiving the ball in a promising position; however, his hesitancy and subsequent lack of decisive action left the final third barren. This ineffectual performance highlighted the gap left by the injured forwards, with manager Enzo Maresca later remarking on the indispensable nature of Nicolas Jackson—praising his relentless running and off-the-ball movement, qualities that had previously helped dismantle Brighton’s defence in earlier encounters.
Maresca’s tactical decision to deploy Nkunku and Cole Palmer as false nines was a desperate attempt to fill the void, yet it ultimately failed to generate the necessary goal threat. The match served as a vivid reminder of why Jackson, despite not being a traditional No9, is so highly valued for the spaces he creates and his overall intensity on the pitch. His presence is not only a catalyst for attacking play but also a key influence off the ball, attributes that are currently sorely missed in Chelsea’s forward line.
