Martin Keown has highlighted the rising threat posed by Chelsea forward Nicolas Jackson, labeling him as “one of the most feared players in the Premier League.”
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As Chelsea prepares to visit Old Trafford this Sunday, Keown warns Manchester United of the danger Jackson represents following his impressive performances this season.
Jackson, signed from Villarreal for £32 million in the summer of 2023, had a challenging debut season at Stamford Bridge, scoring 17 goals across all competitions but often facing criticism for his inconsistent finishing.
However, he appears to have overcome these struggles, netting six Premier League goals this season—an impressive tally only surpassed by four players, including his Chelsea teammate Cole Palmer.
Keown believes that Jackson’s transformation has been remarkable, asserting that he is rapidly becoming a key striker in the league. He remarked, “Manchester United will need to be on their toes to stop the Senegal international.”
With Enzo Maresca’s dynamic Chelsea team heading to Old Trafford amid managerial changes at United, Keown emphasizes the significance of Jackson’s partnership with Palmer.
He notes that Palmer’s vision and playmaking abilities greatly enhance Jackson’s threat on the pitch, as evidenced by his stunning assist for Jackson’s opening goal in Chelsea’s recent 2-1 victory over Newcastle.
Keown suggests that Chelsea’s well-coordinated partnerships across the pitch, from defense to attack, will challenge United significantly. He cautioned that Jackson, who leads the league in sprints this season, will exploit any space behind United’s defense.
As Manchester United sits 14th in the Premier League, closer to relegation than Champions League spots, they will rely on interim manager Ruud van Nistelrooy to maintain momentum ahead of the anticipated arrival of Ruben Amorim.
Chelsea, currently fifth, aims to capitalize on United’s vulnerabilities in what promises to be an exhilarating clash this weekend.
