- Nigerian legend John Obi-Mikel encouraged Nicolas Jackson to embrace constructive criticism
- Jackson, who joined Chelsea from Villarreal last summer, has come under fire for not being clinical
- The Senegalese international had exchanged words with Obi-Mikel and the latter has stood by his criticism of the Chelsea forward
Retired Nigerian footballer John Obi Mikel has urged Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson to embrace his constructive criticism rather than react emotionally. Mikel’s analysis of Jackson’s finishing skills led to a fiery response from the striker, who lashed out on social media after scoring against Wolves.
Despite the tension, Mikel maintains that his remarks were meant to help, not harm, and advises Jackson to focus on improving his goal-scoring ability.
Jackson joined Chelsea from Villarreal last summer and immediately made his mark, scoring 17 goals in his debut season. This season, under the guidance of Enzo Maresca, the Senegalese forward has added two goals in five appearances. But erratic finishing continues to plague him, prompting Mikel and other pundits to weigh in.
Following Jackson’s goal in August, the striker hit back at Mikel on Instagram, writing,
“Shut your mouth, don’t talk s***, we are killing ourselves for Africa.”
However, Mikel remains firm in his stance, clarifying on beIN Sports,
“He is a good player, there is not once I have ever said he is a bad player. The only criticism is his finishing needs to be much better.”
When asked if Jackson would agree with his evaluation, Mikel responded with a laugh, saying,
“I don’t think he agrees to that, but I think everyone will understand what I am saying. It’s not coming from a bad place, it’s really constructive criticism.”
Fellow pundit Ruud Gullit chimed in, stating, “As long as he knows that himself,” with Mikel adding, “But he doesn’t. That’s why when he scored he told me to shut up!”
Despite the club’s failed attempt to sign Victor Osimhen during the summer, Jackson remains Chelsea’s primary striker. Mikel was closely involved in the discussions surrounding Osimhen’s potential move to Stamford Bridge and hinted that the club might make another push in January.
The club appears set to place its faith in Nicolas Jackson for the foreseeable future, at least for the coming months.
Meanwhile, Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has another attacking option in Christopher Nkunku, who showcased his goal-scoring ability with a strong performance off the bench during their recent match against Bournemouth.
Mikel Obi discloses plan to lure Osimhen to Stamford Bridge
Previously, TheRadar reported that as the summer transfer window draws to a close, speculation surrounding Victor Osimhen's future continued to intensify.
The Napoli striker, who has requested to leave the club, is heavily linked with a potential transfer to Chelsea. The deal could involve Romelu Lukaku moving in the opposite direction. In a concerted effort to bring the Nigerian star to Stamford Bridge, former Chelsea legends Didier Drogba and John Obi Mikel have personally reached out to Osimhen.
