Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has conceded that Nicolas Jackson’s red card significantly influenced his side’s 2-0 loss to Newcastle United on Sunday.
The Blues’ hopes of securing Champions League qualification have now been dealt a severe blow.
Jackson, a Senegalese forward, was dismissed in the 36th minute for serious foul play after VAR advised referee John Brooks to conduct an on-field review.
The numerical disadvantage left Chelsea struggling to recover, despite a spirited second-half performance.
Reflecting on the impact of the red card, Maresca acknowledged its importance but commended his players for their determination.
Maresca added that his team managed to put Newcastle under pressure despite being a man down, making tactical adjustments that paid off.
. “The red card affected the game, no doubt, but we had three big chances in the second half, which is not easy with ten men.
“We are not happy with the defeat but the energy, the spirit and the togetherness of the team in the second half has been fantastic. It’s something I feel proud of.
“Second half we adjusted some things and it went quite well. We even looked like we had more players than them. We need to keep the same energy, the same effort and focus on Friday’s game.
“Now my feeling is you need to win both games to qualify for the Champions League.”
