Enzo Maresca has hailed the influence of forward Nicolas Jackson following Chelsea’s 4-1 win over Tottenham, describing the Senegalese striker’s return as a key turning point in the club’s Premier League campaign.
Although Jackson didn’t register a goal or assist in the high-stakes London derby, the Chelsea boss singled out the 23-year-old’s determination and leadership for making what he considered the most decisive contribution of the match.
It came immediately after Cole Palmer’s penalty drew Chelsea level.
As others celebrated, Jackson instinctively rushed to retrieve the ball and return it to the centre circle — a gesture that, for Maresca, epitomised the player’s winning mentality.
“Nico was upset and sad because he didn’t score,” Maresca admitted. “But Nico — and it’s something important for you to highlight — did the most important thing in the game against Tottenham.
After we scored to make it 2-2 with the penalty from Cole, everyone went to be with Cole, but only one player went to get the ball and bring it back to the middle to start the match again.
That was Nico” [Chelsea FC Official Site, The Real Chelsea Fans].
This act of urgency and focus, Maresca said, demonstrated Jackson’s hunger to secure victory, rather than dwell on individual glory.
“Ten players go to celebrate, one brings the ball back to the halfway line. That shows how Nico is there,” the manager added.
Another moment that caught Maresca’s attention involved Enzo Fernandez.
The Argentine had just fired Chelsea into the lead when he attempted to remove his shirt in celebration.
Jackson, alert to the risk of an unnecessary yellow card, quickly intervened and pulled it down.
“That Nico and Enzo moment was a good example,” Maresca noted, emphasising how such small details can help the team avoid avoidable bookings. “If we can avoid yellow cards, then it’s much better.”
Jackson’s contributions this season have gone beyond intangible leadership.
With eight goals and three assists in just 14 league games, the young striker has established himself as a crucial figure in Maresca’s setup, often breaking deadlocks and setting the tone for the Blues’ attack.
Chelsea’s victory over Spurs not only lifted them back into the top four but also reinforced the sense that with Jackson’s return from injury, the team is once again ready to challenge at the highest level
