Romelu Lukaku: Mauricio Pochettino’s Take on Belgian Striker’s Return Amid Nicolas Jackson Struggles

• Mauricio Pochettino has opened the door for a potential return for Romelu Lukaku
• Lukaku won't be signed permanently by Roma once his loan deal comes to an end
• Chelsea are in real need of a striker amid Nicolas Jackson’s struggles this season

Chelsea boss, Mauricio Pochettino, has refused to rule out Romelu Lukaku's return as Nicolas Jackson continues to struggle in front of goal.

Jackson had another unforgettable evening on Tuesday, April 23, as Chelsea were hammered 5-0 by Arsenal in the London derby.

Goals from Leandro Trossard, Ben White (two), and Kai Havertz's brace were enough to condemn Chelsea to a painful defeat, effectively putting an end to their hopes of European football.

Chelsea's Ivorian striker, Jackson, was at fault for missing two clear-cut opportunities; first by tamely heading the ball, then finding the side net when he was expected to at least hit the target with an effort from an angle, a few yards out.

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According to Transfermarkt, Jackson has 13 goals in 38 games for Chelsea across all competitions this season, with 10 of those strikes coming in the Premier League.

Pochettino’s take on Lukaku

Interestingly, the Chelsea gaffer was open to re-welcoming Lukaku back to Stamford Bridge prior to Jackson’s torrid game against the Gunners.

Asked whether the Belgian had a potential future at the club, Pochettino said, per Chelsea News:

“He’s a Chelsea player, so for sure we will pay attention.”

He added, “It’s an option. But still we did not take any decision.”

Lukaku fell out with former Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel halfway through the season and appeared to lose Chelsea fans when he gave an explosive interview.

While Chelsea fans may still be apprehensive about seeing Lukaku back at the club, one thing that is for certain is the club needs a proper Number 9.

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Arteta empathizes with Pochettino

In other news, Sports Brief reported on how Mikel Arteta empathized with Mauricio Pochettino after Chelsea’s latest defeat.

Pochettino was visibly deflated on the touchline after the London derby defeat, and Arteta admitted he knew exactly how the Argentine was feeling.

Next for the Blues is an away trip to Villa Park to face in-form Unai Emery's Aston Villa, who are aiming for a Champions League spot, before another London derby against Tottenham.