Nicolas Jackson injury: What Maresca said about Chelsea’s plan

Enzo Maresca has suggested that Chelsea are not planning to sign a new striker in the free agent market or utilise Deivid Washington despite Nicolas Jackson's injury.  

Jackson is expected to be out for around eight weeks with a hamstring injury, leaving the West London club short of options up front. 

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Maresca has insisted that the Blues will find solutions within the current squad and that they are not planning to enter the free-agent market. 

“Nico will be out until the intentional break, probably available after that,” said the Chelsea head coach on Thursday. “We knew that it was a muscular problem, but we did not know how important it was because his reaction was quite good we did not think it was a big injury.

“Unfortunately he had a scan a few days ago and it is an important one, it will be around six to eight weeks.”

When asked if the club intend to move for a free agent in the window as an emergency signing, Maresca said: "No, no, no. We are focused on finding solutions with the ones that we have."

This means that Christopher Nkunku is likely to be Chelsea's main striker for the foreseeable future.

The West London club’s fans may be disappointed by the club's stance, especially given the lack of depth in the striker position. However, Maresca is confident that Chelsea can cope without Jackson. 

Maresca’s side visit Brighton & Hove Albion on Friday night, keen to avenge last week’s FA Cup fourth-round defeat against the Seagulls and create separation from Manchester City in the top-four race. 

Chelsea, currently two points clear of Pep Guardiola’s side, can move five points clear of the Cityzens with maximum points at the Amex before Guardiola’s men host Newcastle United at the Etihad on Saturday.