He needs more time: Pochettino defends Jackson amid criticisms

Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino has thrown his weight behind Nicolas Jackson as he urged fans to give him more time.

Jackson had been criticised for some of his performances, with some fans leaning on the big chances he has not taken since he joined Chelsea from Villarreal.

Reacting, Pochettino pointed to Jackson’s display against Crystal Palace on Wednesday as an example of what he can offer even when he doesn’t put the ball in the net.

‘He was really good,’ the head coach assessed. ‘He missed the chance to score but the way he worked for the team, ran and pressed, everything was amazing.

‘I think we are putting too much focus on him. We need to give him time, believe in him, and it was really nice that the fans, in the moment he missed the chance, were very supportive. I appreciate the fans that support him and the team.’

So far, Jackson has scored eight goals for Chelsea in all competition this season.