Former Super Eagles captain Mikel Obi has praised Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson for his impressive turnaround in form this season.
Jackson, who struggled in his debut season with the Blues, has silenced his critics with four goals and two assists in five Premier League games.
Mikel Obi, who had previously criticized Jackson’s performances, has now lauded the Senegalese international for taking his feedback on board and improving significantly.
“We are here to help the players, we’re not here to criticize players to put them down.
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If the players are listening and taking what we are saying and try to improve, that’s what I want,” Mikel said on the ObiOne podcast.
Jackson’s rejuvenation has coincided with Chelsea’s upturn in form, and Mikel believes the striker’s improved finishing ability is a key factor. “The way he scored the two goals (against West Ham) were fantastic.
The way he finished the first goal and the second goal just shows that there’s someone trying to improve in scoring goals.”
Mikel’s praise for Jackson is a stark contrast to his criticism last season, where he urged Chelsea to sign another striker to provide more firepower. However, Jackson’s recent performances have proven him wrong, and Mikel acknowledges this.
“After four minutes, people were saying, ‘Mikel, you’ve created an absolute monster of a striker’. And that’s what I want. The guy is scoring goals, he’s doing well, and we’re winning games.”
Jackson’s impressive start to the season has been a welcome boost for Chelsea, who are looking to improve on last season’s disappointing campaign.
With the Senegalese striker leading the line, the Blues will be hoping to challenge for a top-four spot in the Premier League.
Mikel Obi’s praise for Jackson is not only a testament to the striker’s hard work but also demonstrates the importance of constructive criticism in football.
By taking feedback on board and working to improve, Jackson has silenced his doubters and proven himself to be a valuable asset for Chelsea.
The season progresses and all eyes will be on Jackson to see if he can maintain his impressive form. With Mikel Obi and other critics now singing his praises, the pressure is on to continue delivering. Can Jackson lead Chelsea to success this season? Only time will tell.
