Chelsea's manager, Mauricio Pochettino, has sounded a cautionary note to striker Nicolas Jackson in anticipation of their upcoming encounter with Aston Villa.
The 22-year-old Chelsea forward, who was acquired from Villarreal in a £32 million transfer during the summer, has encountered difficulties since making his Premier League debut, managing just one goal in his first five matches. Furthermore, his discipline has come under scrutiny, as he has accumulated four yellow cards, leaving him just one caution away from incurring a one-game suspension.
Pochettino, in addressing his striker's disciplinary concerns, stated, "I had a conversation with him today. We held a meeting with him and also with Enzo [Fernandez]. It's not acceptable for a striker to receive four yellow cards for dissent towards officials. It might be understandable for different actions, but not for this."
"He is a young player who needs to improve. He has the potential to become a fantastic player, but he requires time. He must remain composed and confident in front of the goal, and success will come. He needs to exercise restraint and avoid disputes with referees."
Pochettino also considered the possibility that Jackson's behavior might be habitual or influenced by the alterations in rules for the current season, particularly given his transition from Spanish football to the English Premier League, where officiating standards are perceived as more stringent this season. The manager expressed hope that Jackson avoids receiving another yellow card in the upcoming match against Aston Villa, as it would result in suspension.
Jackson's most recent outing for Chelsea occurred in a frustrating goalless draw against Bournemouth last weekend, during which he missed three scoring opportunities, with one effort striking the woodwork during his 90-minute appearance.
Given the current limitations in Chelsea's striking options, it is likely that Pochettino will grant Jackson another opportunity to break his goal drought in the upcoming clash against Aston Villa on Sunday.
