Mikel Obi highlights area Chelsea star Nicolas Jackson needs to improve

Former Super Eagles captain John Obi Mikel has addressed his recent critiques of Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson, explaining his concerns about the young forward’s finishing ability.

While praising Jackson’s talent and contributions to the team, Mikel highlighted that the striker’s goal-scoring prowess is an area that requires improvement. The Chelsea legend acknowledged Jackson’s impressive positioning and work ethic but stressed that his finishing in front of goal needs refinement.

“I’ve always said what I’ve said about Nicolas Jackson. He is a good player; there is no time I have ever said he is a bad player,” Mikel shared on BEIN Sports. “The only criticism is his finishing needs to be much better. In terms of giving us what we want, being in the right place at the right time, he does for the team.”

The comments come after earlier tensions between the two, when Mikel suggested that Chelsea should consider signing a forward like Nigeria’s Victor Osimhen. Jackson responded with a goal in Chelsea’s 6-2 away win against Wolverhampton and took to social media to tell Mikel to “shut up,” sparking media attention.

Despite the exchange, Mikel’s comments appear constructive, focusing on Jackson’s potential and the areas where he can improve to reach the highest level in his career.