Chelsea have suffered a major injury setback as striker Nicolas Jackson will be out for six weeks after scans revealed a more severe hamstring issue than initially feared.
The 23-year-old Senegalese forward πΈπ³ limped off during the match against West Ham two weeks ago. While manager Enzo Maresca had hoped it was a minor problem, medical tests confirmed a longer recovery period.
π΅ Chelseaβs No. 9 Crisis π¬
Jackson, who has netted 9 goals this season, is Chelseaβs second-top scorer behind Cole Palmer (14 goals). However, his absence leaves Chelsea without a recognized striker after Marc Guiu πͺπΈβwho replaced Jackson in the West Ham matchβalso suffered a serious groin injury in the same game.
π¬ Maresca initially downplayed Jacksonβs injury but later admitted that Guiu could be sidelined for βweeks or monthsβ.
π οΈ Who Will Lead the Line? π€

With no fit natural strikers, Maresca is expected to turn to Cole Palmer and Christopher Nkunku to lead the attack. Nkunku started in Chelseaβs 2-1 FA Cup fourth-round defeat to Brighton last Saturday and is likely to continue in that role.
π Whatβs Next for Chelsea? π΅
Chelsea, currently fourth in the Premier League, will face Brighton again this Friday in the leagueβthis time without a traditional No. 9.
ποΈ Expected Return: Jackson is likely to be sidelined until after the international break at the end of March.
π¨ Can Chelsea cope without a natural striker? Who should step up? Drop your thoughts below in the comments! β¬οΈπ₯

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