Mikel Obi, a former Chelsea midfielder, has been pleased with Nicolas Jackson’s recent performances and acknowledged that the striker has proven him wrong after previously criticising his finishing skills.
After Chelsea defeated Tottenham 4-3 on Sunday, Mikel gave a post-match interview in which he considered his earlier remarks against Jackson, which had caused some controversy.
“We don’t have a striker who knows how to hit the ball into the back of the net,” Mikel had stated earlier in the season when Jackson was having trouble turning chances into goals. I realise that sometimes my frequent mention of him comes across as disrespectful. I do not denigrate him. We need a great striker who can score goals for Chelsea Football Club, in my opinion.
Jackson wrote, “Don’t talk… shut your mouth,” in response to Mikel’s comments on Instagram following a pivotal goal.
Mikel said on Sunday that he understood the young forward’s response and that Jackson had shut his detractors.
Mikel stated that Jackson’s increased form and consistency had been impressive, adding, “He has proven me wrong.”
“Am I allowed to express my opinions? Yes, I am. And I believe that Jackson wasn’t who he is today before I said it. Though he wasn’t putting them away like he does today, he was getting opportunities.
Mikel, who had a fantastic career at Chelsea, winning the Premier League, Champions League, and Europa League, clarified that his criticism was intended to spur Jackson on to greater success.
“I’m glad that he considered what I said. I responded to his statement by saying, “Listen, I’ll keep my mouth shut as long as he keeps scoring and we keep winning games.” And that is just what he has done,” Mikel continued.
With eight goals this season, Jackson has further cemented his position on the team, and Mikel has praised his development.
“Take a look at the figures. This season, he has eight goals to his credit. It’s just the finishing and the fact that he paid attention to what I said, but he’s playing extremely well,” Mikel remarked.
