Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has said that Nicolas Jackson could be fit for his side's Premier League match against Brighton & Hove Albion on February 14.
The Blues were eliminated from the fourth round of the FA Cup on Saturday after losing 2-1 against Brighton & Hove Albion despite taking the lead after just five minutes.
Striker Jackson was not part of the squad this weekend as he was forced off due to a hamstring issue during his team's victory against West Ham United on Monday.
However, Maresca has provided a positive update on the Senegal international, suggesting in the buildup to Saturday's defeat that Jackson could soon be available, saying: "As I said a few days ago, it's not a big injury. He needs some days off and hopefully for the next game, he can be available."
Jackson has been a mainstay in the Blues side this campaign, featuring in 23 of their 24 Premier League games, starting 22 times.
© Imago
Can Jackson fire Chelsea to the Champions League?
Jackson has scored nine goals and provided five assists in the top flight this season, but he has not found the back of the net in any competition since the Blues beat Brentford 2-1 on December 15.
Since he last scored, Chelsea have played 11 matches in all competitions, losing four, drawing three and winning only four in that period.
Maresca's side are currently fourth in the Premier League with 43 points after 24 games, but while they occupy the division's final Champions League qualification spot, just three points separates them from seventh-placed Bournemouth.
Despite his barren run in front of goal, only Cole Palmer has scored more than the striker in the Premier League this campaign, and only the Englishman has registered more assists.
When Palmer has not been at his best, Chelsea have struggled to break down opponents at times, and Jackson showed earlier in the season that he is capable of earning points in difficult circumstances.
If Jackson can recapture his form in front of goal, then he could be influential in bringing Champions League football back to Stamford Bridge.
Lewis Nolan
