Nicolas Jackson’s first-half performance against West Ham has been likened to the efforts of Chelsea legend Didier Drogba.
The 22-year-old, who completed a move from Villarreal to the Blues earlier in the summer for around £32million, has made an impressive start to life at Stamford Bridge.
During pre-season, Jackson was quick to make a great impression in the Chelsea attack as he scored twice during their summer schedule.
He also shone on his Premier League debut against Liverpool and could very well have got onto the scoresheet for the first time during the 1-1 draw.
Jackson continued his encouraging form in their trip to West Ham, with Scott Minto liking what he saw in the opening 45 minutes.
Speaking to talkSPORT, the former Chelsea defender said: “You know who he reminded me of in that first half? Although he’s got to do it for about four more years, maybe even five, Drogba.
“He was powerful, he dropped off, his touch was good, he was holding defenders off, he was running in behind, he was turning, defenders couldn’t keep up with him pace wise.
“I was like, ‘Whoosh, tell you what, this is a player’. Now as I say, I’m very weary of using those words Didier and Drogba with any kind of Chelsea no.9 at the moment.
It’s only been Diego Costa that’s kind of lived up to any kind of hype and there’s been some big, big names, not just wearing the no.9 but playing up front for Chelsea.
“But I saw a lot of talent and a lot of potential there, and do you know what? He could turn things almost on his own.”
Such a comparison to Drogba is certainly one that Jackson can take with great pride given the Ivorian’s iconic status in west London.
The former Ivory Coast international scored 164 goals for the club and was crucial in their first ever Champions League triumph in 2012, with four Premier League titles also coming his way.
Drogba was famous for causing havoc against opposition defences and having an eye for goal.
Chelsea fans will be hoping that Jackson can replicate such success at the club amid their struggles with other strikers in previous seasons.
Following their opening two results, the Blues currently sit 15th in the Premier League table with just one point to their name.
They host Luton Town on Friday night, live on talkSPORT, a chance for Jackson to score his first goal in Chelsea colours.
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