Tim Sherwood has expressed admiration for Nicolas Jackson’s mentality following Chelsea’s 2-1 victory over Brentford but pointed out that at times, the striker seems to play like a celebrity in Soccer Aid rather than a professional footballer.
Jackson, who scored Chelsea’s second goal, had missed an easy chance earlier in the game. Despite this, Sherwood believes the 23-year-old’s unpredictable nature makes him a constant threat.
Unpredictable but Effective
Sherwood highlighted Jackson’s ability to recover from missed chances, noting that while he sometimes misses simple opportunities, his determination and talent often lead to impressive goals.
“He scores the hardest chances and misses the easiest ones,” Sherwood said. “But you need to be a big character to do that.”
Jackson’s goal, which secured the win for Chelsea, was a moment of brilliance, showcasing his ability to drive forward and finish under pressure.
Sherwood praised the young forward’s composure, stating that his balance and technique in that moment were exceptional. He also noted Jackson’s potential for growth, praising his work ethic and attitude.
A Bright Future Ahead
Sherwood believes Jackson is still developing and has the potential to become even better under manager Enzo Maresca’s guidance.
He compared Jackson to Didier Drogba, suggesting that after 50 games, Jackson has already shown promise exceeding Drogba’s early performances at Chelsea.
Sherwood emphasized that Jackson’s willingness to take risks and put himself in positions to score despite earlier misses demonstrates a strong character.