Chelsea Seeks Alternative As Nicolas Jackson Gets AFCON Call-Up

Chelsea received the news as Senegal made their roster for the upcoming 2024 African Cup of Nations.

The announcement solidified Nicolas Jackson’s anticipated decision in the squad. Jackson, Chelsea’s 22-year-old striker, has been a standout performer this season with seven goals in the Premier League, claiming the position of the team’s leading goal scorer.

His exceptional form places him on track to potentially surpass the goal-scoring records set by previous Chelsea stars like Tammy Abraham and Diego Costa. Despite substantial investments in new attacking talent over the past seven years, no player has come close to matching these lifestyles until Jackson’s emergence.

The young forward known for his winger role, transitioned to a central position, catching the eye of Chelsea during a remarkable stint last season. His move to Stamford Bridge earlier this year came after a failed deal with Bournemouth due to injury concerns.

Jackson’s rise led to a regular spot in Senegal’s national team, though he has appeared only a handful of times since his debut at the 2022 World Cup. As the 2024 African Cup approaches in Ivory Coast, he stands among the younger talents in a seasoned Senegalese side aiming to defend their championship title.

Senegal, spearheaded by former Chelsea players Kalidou Koulibaly and Edouard Mendy, faced a last-16 exit in the previous World Cup. Jackson, distant from the starting lineup now aims to secure a more prominent role in the team.

The squad comprises esteemed names like Leicester’s Nampalys Mendy, Everton’s Idrissa Gana Gueye, along with standout talents such as Cheikhou Kouyate, Pape Matar Sarr, Sadio Mane, Ismaila Sarr, and Iliman Ndiaye. Jackson’s inclusion was expected and has now been officially confirmed.

However, this call-up poses a significant challenge for Chelsea as Jackson’s participation could see him absent from January fixtures, including Carabao Cup semi-final clashes against Middlesbrough, a live match against Liverpool, and an FA Cup third-round encounter versus Preston. His absence might extend to subsequent games if Senegal progresses to the final.

Despite Jackson’s commendable goal tally this season, his performance has been marred by notable missed opportunities and disciplinary issues, having received eight yellow cards in just 15 league starts.

Furthermore, Chelsea’s pursuit of a seasoned forward in the transfer market has been hindered by various factors, including complications with potential signings such as Ivan Toney and Victor Osimhen’s recent contract extension.

Due to Jackson’s absence, the responsibility to fill the striking void might fall on Christopher Nkunku, who returns from injury, and academy graduate Armando Broja. However, Broja, still regaining match fitness after a prolonged injury which them has only managed to find since his return.

The Blues face a challenging period ahead, maintaining their momentum in the absence of their prolific young striker, while also considering alternatives within the team to compensate for him not being present during this critical time of the season.