Frank McAvennie

Fri 26 April 2024 22:00, UK

Chelsea star Nicolas Jackson’s confidence is “shattered” and he only keeps starting as there is no other striker to replace him.

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, former West Ham United and Celtic striker Frank McAvennie claimed that Blues fans have been “slaughtering” Jackson, 22, and blaming him for their frequent woes in front of goal.

The £31.8million man has bagged 13 goals and five assists across 38 games in all competitions this term, but he has missed 20 big chances in the Premier League this season – the joint third highest.

He is a key member of a struggling Chelsea squad who have been widely blasted for their inconsistency across the pitch and devastating results, most recently their 5-0 thrashing against Arsenal on Tuesday (23 April).

Chelsea ace Nicolas Jackson must rebuild ‘shattered’ confidence

McAvennie suggested criticism of Jackson has been amplified due to the high level of Chelsea’s past strikers, but urged him to improve his finishing to boost his confidence.

“The fans are blaming and criticising Jackson a lot,” he told Football Insider.

“People are blaming him for Chelsea’s struggles in front of goal.

“But he has a hard act to follow considering some of the strikers that have been at Chelsea through the years.

“He is missing a few chances and everyone’s been slaughtering him.

“It’s alright if you’re winning and still missing chances, but when you’re getting beaten, it’s a huge issue.

“People are turning on him, but football is a harsh reality.

“But he can’t keep missing these chances.

“He’s probably only still playing because there’s no one else to come in.

“Every time I see him score, I think he’ll go on a run, but he doesn’t.

“He’s a good player, but his confidence is shattered.”

In other news, Tottenham in pole position to win race for Chelsea star after Newcastle twist.

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