EPL: Mikel Obi showers encomium on Nicolas Jackson for thrilling performance
Mikel Obi and Nicolas Jackson
Mikel Obi showers encomium on Nicolas Jackson for thrilling performance
Former Chelsea midfielder Mikel Obi has expressed satisfaction with Nicolas Jackson’s recent performances, admitting the striker has proved him wrong after earlier criticism of his finishing abilities.
In a post-match interview on Sunday, following Chelsea’s 4-3 victory over Tottenham, Mikel reflected on his previous comments about Jackson, which had sparked some controversy.
Earlier in the season, during Jackson’s struggles to convert chances, Mikel had said, “You need a striker who knows how to hit the ball into the back of the net, and that’s what we don’t have.
“I know I talk so much about him that sometimes it sounds like I disrespect him. I don’t disrespect him. I just think that, at Chelsea Football Club, we need a top striker who can get us goals.”
Jackson responded to Mikel’s remarks on Instagram after scoring a crucial goal, saying, “Don’t talk… shut your mouth.”
On Sunday, Mikel acknowledged the young forward’s reaction and admitted Jackson had silenced his critics.
“He has proved me wrong,” Mikel said, noting that Jackson’s improved form and consistency have been impressive.
“Am I entitled to my opinion? Of course I am. And I think, before I made that statement, he wasn’t the Jackson that we see now. He was getting chances but wasn’t putting them away like he is doing now.”
Mikel, who enjoyed a highly successful career with Chelsea, winning the Premier League, Champions League, and Europa League, explained that his criticism was meant to motivate Jackson to improve.
“I’m happy he took what I said on board. When he made that statement, I said, ‘Listen, as long as he keeps scoring and we keep winning games, I’ll keep my mouth shut.’ And that’s exactly what he’s done,” Mikel added.
Jackson’s tally of eight goals this season has further solidified his place in the team, with Mikel praising his growth.
“Look at the numbers. He’s scored eight goals this season. He’s playing really well, and it’s just the finishing and the fact that he listened to what I said,” Mikel concluded.
