Former Chelsea Star Praises Nicolas Jackson Amid Upturn in Form For Premier League Side

• Chelsea's Nicolas Jackson continues to silence all his critics
• The Blues centre-forward bagged a brace against West Ham
• Demba Ba has backed the youngster to continue performing

Former Newcastle United and Chelsea striker, Demba Ba, has faulted Nicolas Jackson's critics amid the striker's impressive run of form.

This season, the Senegalese international has been heavily criticised for missing golden opportunities, mainly in the Premier League.

However, in the last few weeks, the numbers of the former Villareal star have improved significantly, earning him applause from fans and pundits.

The 22-year-old striker, playing in his first season in England, initially struggled to settle at the club, who are having another forgettable campaign. Nevertheless, things are looking good.

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With three games left in the 2023/24 season, Jackson has scored 16 goals in 41 games in all competitions, which is the exact tally Chelsea legend, Didier Drogba, had in his first season at Stamford Bridge.

While highlighting the inconsistencies in the football community, Demba Ba backed his compatriot, who is having a promising debut season at Chelsea.

"Football is crazy 🤯🤯 Nicolas Jackson was a doubt in people’s minds after missing a couple of chances in a game a few weeks ago. All of a sudden, he became a great footballer/goalscorer 😂😂. Keep doing your thing and shining, my little brother 💪🏿💙."

Chelsea coach, Mauricio Pochettino, assessed Jackson's first season at Chelsea.

"Yes, he is doing fantastic. He is doing an amazing job for the team - running, scoring goals and giving assists. In his first season, a young guy coming from Spain, even with not much experience there, I think he is doing fantastic," he said via Football London.

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Blues fans will expect Jackson to up his game next season as they push for trophies following another underwhelming campaign.

Drogba vs Jackson's first seasons at Chelsea

Sports Brief also previously compared Drogba and Jackson's first seasons at Chelsea, with the Ivorian nearing his peak when he arrived at the club in 2004.

The Blues legend had a slow first season at Stamford Bridge, and the Senegal star matched his numbers after scoring a brace against West Ham United on May 5.

Drogba sends message to Jackson

Sports Brief also reported on Drogba sending a lovely message to Jackson after intense criticism directed at him earlier in the season.

The legendary Ivorian sent his best wishes to the young striker, encouraging him to bounce back after a challenging but decent campaign.