In Focus: Jackson can soften blow of Nkunku injury for Chelsea

Nicolas Jackson really caught the eye for Chelsea in pre-season. 

While much of the initial focus was on big-money arrival Christopher Nkunku, Jackson arguably impressed even more. 

The 22-year-old, signed from Villarreal earlier in the summer, managed two goals four assists in Chelsea's preparations for the 2023-24 campaign under new manager Mauricio Pochettino. 

With Nkunku ruled out for an extended period of time after undergoing knee surgery, Jackson is expected to lead the line for the Blues against Liverpool today — we take a look at his numerous qualities.

Adapting to England

Pochettino has been impressed by Jackson and praised the young striker after he scored in Chelsea's 1-1 draw with Newcastle in the Premier League Summer Series.

The Argentine said: "I think [Jackson] has shown his quality and talent. He is good in front of goal, very relaxed when he has the chances. 

"I am happy because a striker needs to score to build confidence and trust. 

"He was [with Villarreal] in LaLiga, which is also really competitive but he needs to adapt to the Premier League. 

"The tempo is higher than LaLiga. There are many things that make the Premier League one of the best, one of the most competitive, and one is the physical condition."

Exceeding expectations

Jackson joined Chelsea off the back of an impressive season in which he scored 12 LaLiga goals for Villarreal. 

Only Antoine Griezmann and Robert Lewandowski netted more times from open play in the Spanish top flight than the Senegal international. 

He also significantly outperformed his xG of 6.51, which suggests he is capable of an even greater goal return if more chances come his way.

With raw pace and excellent dribbling to add to his considerable finishing ability, Jackson will surely cause Premier League defenders plenty of problems.

Fresh legs

Jackson has already shown glimpses of the quality he brings to a Chelsea attack that struggled for goals last term.

His link-up play during pre-season has been particularly promising, establishing an understanding with the likes of Mykhailo Mudryk and Conor Gallagher, which bodes well for Pochettino as he looks to create a more attack-minded side. 

Chelsea scored a measly 38 goals in the Premier League last season, with Kai Havertz their leading scorer with just seven to his name.

The Blues needed a reinvigoration of their attacking line-up — and Jackson should help provide that.

High praise

Pochettino has not been alone in his praise of Jackson, with the young forward also earning plaudits from new team-mate Reece James.

The England international said: "[Jackson's] got big shoes to fill. Chelsea's No9 has got a big history. 

"He's come in at a good time. So far, he's taken his chances and he's helping us at the top of the pitch."

No pressure

Amid all the positivity, there will likely be an element of nervousness for Jackson ahead of the Liverpool match.

Chelsea has not been a happy hunting ground for strikers in recent times, with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Romelu Lukaku, Tammy Abraham, Gonzalo Higuain, Radamel Falcao and Fernando Torres all failing to find their best form in a Blues shirt.

Jackson will be hoping his career at Stamford Bridge blossoms in a way his predecessors' did not.