Defensive injury worries continue as Chelsea told Nicolas Jackson reality

Chelsea have been informed of their Nicolas Jackson reality by an infamous former Premier League striker. Troy Deeney has made a bold claim on the Senegal international who's enjoyed a telling and impressive start to the season. Deeney's comments come amid media talk of the Blues actually targeting another centre forward to sign in the new year. Will Jackson remain the main man up front with the backing of his manager? Or will the 23-year-old eventually become a backup to another more 'qualified' or deeply desired attacker?

In addition to that matter to contend with, CFC boss Enzo Maresca also has fitness problems at Stamford Bridge. Certain crucial stars of the west London side are still laid low at present. And, with no return dates in sight for two defenders, Chelsea's injury worries unfortunately continue. Will Wesley Fofana remain out of position on the right for the English capital team? Or, with comebacks not yet pencilled in for captain Reece James or Malo Gusto, will a different player step in?

When will we know more on Reece James and Malo Gusto timelines?

At the moment Chelsea fans are in the dark about defensive duo James and Gusto. The two are technically elder and younger rivals vying for the same position in the XI. Well, they would be if both were fit; there is a chance that James could be deployed at right centre back, and Gusto at wing back.

Anyway, the Englishman is suffering a recurrence of his usual hamstring injury; this time sustained in preseason versus Real Madrid. The full back will be 25 this year but is widely known for being stricken; when on form, James is one of the best right backs in the world. Maresca does not know when the Three Lions player will be fit again.

The Frenchman featured in three Chels' matches this campaign before being sidelined; Gusto's thigh is causing his absence at present. Again, the eye-catching baller's current status is unknown, with no date set for competitive action. Though midfielder Romeo Lavia could reappear again soon, at least in training.

Chelsea receive Nicolas Jackson instruction from ex-Premier League forward

Jackson has surprised me this term, to be honest. At this stage it is uncertain but he could claim the No.9 spot by sheer merit. Although, not everyone at the Bridge agrees. Yet the Blues have been instructed to persevere with the Senegalese by one informed pundit:

"I’m quite critical of how many chances he [Jackson] misses for Chelsea and, if he wants to be the main man moving forward, he has to have more games like this. He grabbed hold of it, offered a threat in behind and scored goals. Chelsea don’t need to buy another striker if he stays in this kind of form."

- Troy Deeney