Aasif Rahman

Thu 13 March 2025 12:27, UK

Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson has been out of action since February after picking up an injury but has provided fans with an update on his recovery.

Chelsea are gearing up for their second-leg clash against Copenhagen in the Conference League round of 16, holding a narrow 2-1 lead from the first leg.

Jackson sustained his injury against West Ham on 3 February, a blow compounded by the simultaneous sidelining of Marc Guiu.

This injury setback has left Chelsea without a recognised striker, a situation made even more challenging by the club’s decision not to invest in a forward during the January transfer window.

The lack of a natural striker has led to growing frustration among fans, with many Chelsea supporters calling for Joao Felix to be recalled following Jackson’s injury.

However, Jackson’s latest recovery update has sparked optimism among supporters, as they now hope he may soon return to action and boost their attacking options.

Enzo Maresca faces tough decision in replacing Nicolas Jackson

Jackson shared a glimpse into his recovery on Instagram, posting a picture of himself working out in the gym while wearing a Chelsea training top.

While fans may have hoped to see him back on the pitch, this update has sparked optimism that his return could be sooner rather than later.

With Felix loaned out to AC Milan, Chelsea were expected to rely more on Christopher Nkunku. However, with the injuries currently affecting the squad, Nkunku’s role has become even more crucial.

Despite his importance, he was not included in the starting lineup for the first leg against Copenhagen. Instead, 17-year-old Shim Mheuka was given his first Chelsea start.

This could suggest that Nkunku is being rested ahead of upcoming league fixtures to avoid further injury concerns, but his recent form has raised some questions. The forward has managed just one goal in his last eight appearances, leaving fans wondering about his consistency.

Enzo Maresca under pressure as hopes rely on Conference League

Maresca has built a reputation for rotating his squad during European fixtures, which is why Jackson has often been a regular starter in the Premier League. His nine goals have proven the value of this rotation strategy.

However, with Chelsea’s only realistic shot at silverware this season now resting on the Conference League, the Italian will know the importance of maintaining their current form.

Despite Maresca facing ongoing sack pressure from Chelsea fans for inconsistent performances in the league, if they can lift a European trophy at the end of the season, the pressure on the manager will surely subside.