Chelsea’s forward options have taken a significant hit with Nicolas Jackson ruled out until April due to a hamstring injury. The Senegalese striker picked up the issue during Chelsea’s victory over West Ham earlier this month, initially playing on before being substituted in the second half.
After missing the FA Cup defeat to Brighton, Jackson underwent further assessment, with scans confirming the severity of his injury. The 22-year-old is expected to be sidelined until after the international break at the end of March, dealing a huge blow to Enzo Maresca’s plans.
- Brighton (Premier League) – February 16
- Aston Villa (Premier League) – February 24
- Southampton (Premier League) – March 2
- Leicester City (Premier League) – March 9
- Arsenal (Premier League) – March 17
Chelsea will hope to have Jackson fit in time for their London derby against Tottenham on April 2.
With Jackson sidelined, Maresca faces a serious dilemma up front. Young striker Marc Guiu also picked up an injury in the West Ham clash and remains unavailable. This leaves Chelsea without a natural No. 9, forcing them to look elsewhere for solutions.
Christopher Nkunku, who has impressed in the Europa Conference League, could be called upon to lead the line. Chelsea had explored signing a striker in January and were linked with Mathys Tel before he joined Tottenham, but their failure to reinforce the position now leaves them short-handed.
After an electric start to the season under Maresca, Chelsea have stumbled in recent weeks, winning just two of their last eight Premier League matches. They now sit 16 points behind league leaders Liverpool.
Jackson has been a key figure in Maresca’s attack, registering nine goals and five assists this season, all in the Premier League. While he had gone eight games without a goal before his injury, his absence will undoubtedly disrupt Chelsea’s attacking rhythm.
With a tough run of fixtures ahead, Maresca must now find a way to navigate Chelsea through a crucial period without his primary striker.