Jackson’s Rash Red Leaves Chelsea Short Upfront in Final Stretch
Byline: IDNN Premier League Desk
Stamford Bridge, London – Chelsea’s push for a top-four finish took a major blow Sunday, as forward Nicolas Jackson was sent off in the 36th minute during a 2-0 defeat to Newcastle. The VAR-reviewed red card triggered fury from manager Enzo Maresca, who now faces a striker shortage with just two games left in the season.
“No doubt. He has to learn,” Maresca said post-match. “Especially now—we need the entire squad available.”
The 23-year-old was dismissed for serious foul play, and his absence could prove costly with Chelsea in a neck-and-neck battle for UEFA Champions League qualification.
Striker Wipeout: Who’s Left?
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Jackson: Suspended
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Christopher Nkunku: Injured
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Marc Guiu: Returning from 3-month layoff
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Maresca: “We need a different solution”
📉 Table Trouble: Champions League Race Tightens
| Position | Club | Points | GD |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | Chelsea | 68 | +18 |
| 5 | Aston Villa | 68 | +15 |
| 6 | Nottingham Forest | 67 | +11 |
Only goal difference keeps Chelsea above Villa, and Forest lurks just one point behind.
“My feeling is we need to win both games to be sure,” Maresca added. “Every mistake now is punished.”
Chelsea’s Final Fixtures
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vs Manchester United – May 16
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@ Nottingham Forest – May 25
With two direct rivals in their path, Chelsea must find firepower—and fast.
Jackson’s Season (Before Red)
| Stat | Number |
|---|---|
| Premier League Goals | 11 |
| Assists | 3 |
| Red Cards | 1 |
| Matches Missed | 2 (upcoming) |
Tactical Shake-Up Incoming?
With no fit No. 9s, Maresca may turn to wide forwards or a false nine system. Options include:
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Raheem Sterling
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Cole Palmer
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Conor Gallagher in advanced role
The Chelsea boss, however, remains tight-lipped.
“We’ll figure it out this week. But yes, it changes things.”
IDNN Takeaway
This isn’t just about a red card—it’s a structural problem. Chelsea’s squad depth is under the microscope, and Jackson’s moment of madness could be the difference between Champions League riches and another year in limbo.
The pressure’s on. And it starts now.