‘I didn’t like what he did’: Mauricio Pochettino admits £30m Chelsea player was left alone, needed way more help
Mauricio Pochettino acknowledged that Chelsea needed to provide more support to Nicolas Jackson during his Premier League debut. Despite being impressed by Jackson’s individual performance, Pochettino highlighted that the young striker often appeared isolated in the lone striker role against Virgil van Dijk.
Jackson’s Premier League debut was marked by his effort and commitment, but he did miss a notable chance in the first half, failing to convert a well-placed cross from Reece James.
Pochettino, speaking to Sky Sports, emphasized that while he was satisfied with Jackson’s performance, the team needed to offer him more assistance in the attack. He stated that Jackson was sometimes too isolated, fighting alone against strong defensive opponents like Van Dijk.
The Chelsea manager explained, “The only problem was that sometimes he was a little bit isolated, he needed more help, because he was fighting so far.” He praised Jackson’s efforts but indicated that improving the team’s support around him would be crucial.
Pochettino expressed his belief that Jackson’s performance would improve with more support from the team and closer collaboration between players. He underlined the need for continuous improvement and adaptation.
Despite the challenges Jackson faced, Pochettino’s overall positive assessment of his Premier League debut and his desire to provide him with better support bodes well for the young striker’s future performances. Chelsea supporters will be eager to see how Jackson’s role and performance develop in upcoming matches, with the manager’s emphasis on improving teamwork and support.