Chelsea legend John Obi Mikel delivered a blunt assessment of Nicolas Jackson’s performance during Chelsea’s 2-0 loss to Manchester City.
While on duty as a pundit with beIN Sports,
Mikel pointed out Jackson’s lack of shot power, comparing him unfavourably to City’s Erling Haaland.
Chelsea fell behind early in their Premier League opener when Haaland capitalized on a defensive lapse to put City ahead in the 18th minute.
Despite the hosts having some few good moments, including a disallowed goal from Jackson due to offside, the Blues struggled to break City.
Speaking on Jackson’s performance, Mikel remarked, “We created chances but didn’t take them. Jackson’s finishing wasn’t sharp enough.
“Even though he was offside, the way he shot the ball shows we lack a striker who knows how to put the ball in the back of the net,” he added.
Mikel, who played as a midfielder in Chelsea’s success during his time at the club, stressed the need for a striker of Haaland’s caliber.
“At Chelsea, we need a top striker who can get us goals. Haaland’s record at City, 91 goals in 100 games is unbelievable.”
With Jackson managing just 17 goals in 45 appearances since joining from Villarreal, the pressure is mounting on Chelsea to find a reliable goal-scorer while the transfer window is still open.