Nicolas Jackson worst-case Chelsea suspension scenario as Enzo Maresca issues honest verdict
Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca will have a lot to ponder over during the October international break after the Premier League draw against Nottingham Forest. The Blues' impressive winning run was halted over the weekend by a stubborn Forest side that have lost just once this season.
There were numerous talking points emerging from the clash at Stamford Bridge with the biggest surrounding Nicolas Jackson. A huge brawl broke out late on after Neco Williams' push on Marc Cucurella with Jackson raising his hand and appearing to make contact with the face of Forest's Morata.
Another major moment from the stalemate involved Noni Madueke with the 22-year-old on target for the first time since his hat-trick against Wolves in late August. Following his goal, Maresca was full of praise for the winger but admitted he had some firm words with him earlier in the week.
With that said, football.london has taken a look at the big Chelsea headlines following the weekend clash and looking ahead to their upcoming fixtures.
Worst-case Jackson suspension scenario
Chelsea will already be without Marc Cucurella and Wesley Fofana for the trip to Anfield to face Liverpool with Jackson potentially joining them in being absent. Though he did not receive any punishment on the day, Jackson could still face some consequences because of his actions.
If he is deemed to have committed an act of violent conduct, Jackson will likely serve a three-match ban, however that is subject to being changed depending on the incident.
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football.london says: "Jackson will be lucky to escape without being punished for what he did against Nottingham Forest. While anything further than being banned for three games at least appears unlikely, the FA could seek out a more severe punishment given the intent.
"A prolonged absence for Jackson could be a significant blow for Maresca and Chelsea given his impact already this season, though that may not be the case. The likes of Christopher Nkunku and Joao Felix are likely eager for an opportunity to impress in the Premier League and one of those could be coming their way.
"One potential saving grace is that Jackson could serve a portion of his ban in the Conference League, a competition he is unlikely to play in anyway, which may see him only miss fixtures against Liverpool and Newcastle."
Firm Maresca verdict
At an important moment, Madueke scored his first goal in nearly six weeks with Chelsea head coach Maresca potentially playing a huge role in his hugely decisive action.
“Very happy for Noni but I think all the players were good today," said the 44-year-old after the game. "Happy for Noni because during the week I told him that he scored three goals against Wolves and then he stopped scoring. Today, he scored. Noni is doing fantastic."
football.london says: "Maresca has made no secret of his love for Madueke as a winger which is probably why he was so keen for him to find the back of the net again.
"The Englishmen has struggled to replicate his heroics at Wolves which has thrown into question his starting XI spot, especially with someone like Pedro Neto waiting in the wings. A goal, though it has arrived just before a break, will do wonders for his confidence and Maresca will likely feel vindicated by his decision to keep him in the team.
"The aim from now will be to kick on further, especially with Cole Palmer, Neto, Felix and Mykhailo Mudryk among the other options to head out on international duty. Madueke, meanwhile, will have the chance to work much closer with Maresca at Cobham in an attempt to further improve his game."