John Obi Mikel believes Nicolas Jackson has slipped to third choice in Chelsea’s striker pecking order but insists the Senegalese forward still has a key role to play at the club, Metro UK reported.
After spending two seasons as Chelsea’s main option up front, Jackson now faces stiff competition following the arrivals of Liam Delap and Joao Pedro this summer.
Delap, who joined from Ipswich Town for £30 million, has already made a strong impression. He scored his first goal for the Blues at the FIFA Club World Cup against ES Tunis and has looked sharp overall.
Although he was suspended for Chelsea’s semi-final clash with Fluminense, his presence is clearly being felt.
In Delap’s absence, new £60 million signing Joao Pedro made his first start since joining from Brighton, and he didn’t disappoint. The Brazilian scored two stunning goals against his former club, helping Chelsea secure a 2-0 win and a spot in the final.
Jackson started that game on the bench and, after coming on, missed a major opportunity to score. He was also criticized by teammate Cole Palmer for failing to pass during the chance.
Speaking to DAZN, former Chelsea midfielder Mikel said, “It’s important we have competition in the team, especially at a big club like Chelsea.
That’s what we have now. But based on today’s performance, I think Joao and Delap are probably ahead of Jackson right now.”
Still, Mikel believes Jackson shouldn’t be written off and could prove valuable in the season ahead as Chelsea push for silverware.
