John Mikel Obi is full of praise for Nicolas Jackson.
Image credit: The Obi One Podcast
Former Chelsea star John Obi Mikel has praised Nicolas Jackson’s brilliant performance in Chelsea’s dominant 3-0 victory over West Ham, highlighting the forward’s progress since joining the club.
In his recent Obi One Podcast, Mikel acknowledged that while he had previously criticized Jackson’s early displays, the Senegalese striker showed significant improvement, netting two vital goals in the match.
“Nicolas Jackson wants to give his best for Chelsea,” Mikel remarked. “It’s incredible to see him working on his game and delivering a fantastic performance like this.”
Mikel was particularly impressed by the clinical nature of Jackson’s finishing, stating that the way he executed his two goals was “absolutely fantastic.”
He added that his earlier critiques were meant to push Jackson to greater heights rather than to bring him down.
The former Nigeria international also heaped praise on Chelsea’s midfield dynamo, Moisés Caicedo, calling his performance “the best in a Chelsea shirt so far.”
Drawing comparisons to N’Golo Kanté, Mikel noted how Caicedo covered the pitch with immense energy and tactical awareness, describing his performance as “everywhere, like Kanté.”
With Chelsea now under the guidance of new manager Enzo Maresca, Mikel believes the team is beginning to find its rhythm. “Everything is starting to click—the system, the philosophy—it’s all coming together,” Mikel said, reflecting his optimism about Chelsea’s direction this season.
Jackson’s two goals helped secure Chelsea’s third win in five Premier League games, further cementing his role as the team’s main striker despite competition from fellow forward Christopher Nkunku.
Mikel expressed his delight at the squad’s overall strength, noting that substitutes coming off the bench only added to the team’s performance rather than diminishing it.
Mikel concluded by emphasizing how enjoyable it has become to watch Chelsea again, especially with the team’s new dynamic and exciting style of play.