Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has revealed that he views Nicolas Jackson as his "perfect number nine".
Despite criticism over the amount of big chances that he has missed, the Senegal international has been viewed as Chelsea's first-choice forward since his arrival from Villarreal in the summer of 2023.
A total of 26 goals and 11 assists have been contributed from 70 appearances in all competitions, Jackson having notably not netted a penalty during that period.
In his absence since February, Chelsea struggled in front of goal, failing to score more than once in six of the seven Premier League matches that he missed.
However, the 23-year-old has since come through two matches after a layoff for a hamstring injury and is expected to lead the line against Ipswich Town on Sunday afternoon.
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Maresca reiterates Jackson admiration
Maresca has never been shy on praising Jackson's qualities in the final third, highlighting his movement and ability to open up space for other players.
Speaking at a press conference on Thursday night, Maresca stated that the attacker was of the ideal profile for his system and he would be happy to sign "a copy" of the player if it were possible.
The Italian told reporters, as quoted by football.london: "My perfect No,9 is exactly Nico Jackson. We already have a No.9. It's not summer now."
He added: "If we can have a copy of Nico, it's OK. I have said many times, and you can see as well, with Nico we are a better team. Nico is the one we need.
"Last season, he scored goals without penalties. This season he scored goals until he was injured. Now, hopefully he can score more goals without penalties. We are happy with Nico. And about next season, it's not the moment."
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New forward inevitable
Despite Maresca's reluctance to comment on any plans for the summer, the general consensus is that a new centre-forward arriving at Stamford Bridge is inevitable.
Christopher Nkunku has failed to make any kind of sustained impact in the Premier League, the majority of his strikes coming in the Conference League.
Marc Guiu is viewed as someone who can become a senior number nine for Chelsea in the future, yet a third option will be required if Chelsea are competing in Europe next season.
Selling Nkunku, as well as potentially Joao Felix, could fund a move for a new striker. Premier League options on Chelsea's shortlist may include Ipswich frontman Liam Delap, who has previously worked with Maresca, and Wolverhampton Wanderers attacker Matheus Cunha.
Darren Plant
