By Ashton Cox
Nicolas Jackson has been ruled out of action until after the March international break.
The Senegalese striker picked up the hamstring injury during last week’s victory over West Ham United.
Originally, Enzo Maresca had hoped that his main number nine would be back in time for Friday’s trip to the Amex Stadium.
He previously said: “As I said a few days ago, it’s not a big injury, he needs some days off and hopefully for the next game, he can be available.”
However, Wednesday’s scan has revealed that the extent of the injury is far worse than initially feared.
With Marc Guiu and David Datro Fofana also injured for an extended period and Joao Felix loaned out to AC Milan, Christopher Nkunku is the only option to field at striker.
Despite netting 13 goals this season, the Frenchman has struggled in the Premier League, where he has netted just twice in 20 appearances – most of which came from the bench.
Now, he will need to pick up form as Chelsea face the likes of Aston Villa, Arsenal and potentially Tottenham in Jackson’s absence.
Maresca praised Jackson’s impact last week: “Sometimes I think you need to play some games without players to realise how important they are. Off the ball, his [Jackson’s] pressing is always very good and on the ball he is a threat always.”
His tally of nine goals and five assists in the league, alongside his dynamic runs will be sorely missed.