Maresca explains exactly why he plays Jackson over Nkunku – and striker proves his point with goal | OneFootball

We’re starting to see the first changes to Enzo Maresca’s preferred lineup creeping into the team now as the weeks pass. It’s been incredibly settled up until now, but steadily we’re seeing more experiments and variation from the coach.

There are changes at the back and in midfield – but one person whose position is not in doubt is Nicolas Jackson. The striker is in great form, and is essential for the way this team plays. Despite the pressure of having a world class striker like Christopher Nkunku breathing down his neck, the Senegal star remains a key man and an indispensable starter for Maresca, who raved about his forward in his flash interview ahead of the game against Newcastle yesterday afternoon.

“He’s showing everything, he’s doing well. On the ball, off the ball, he’s helping the team,” Maresca said. He even threw a bone to his other striker, who must surely be getting frustrated by being restricted to cup games by now.

“We have also Christo in that position, so we can choose.”

Jadon Sancho and Christopher Nkunku after combining for a goal.

Jackson backs up his bosses praise with goal against Newcastle

Well, so far, the choice has been easy for Maresca. Jackson all the way. It’s nice to have Nkunku as an option because he brings something different, but ultimately he can’t match the energy of Jackson up top.

If the game gets into the latter stages and we need another approach to try and break teams down, Nkunku is the perfect option. But until then, the Jackson-Maresca love affair will continue. His goal yesterday was another reminder of how important he is to the team, and another deserved line on his stats sheet on his impressive season so far.

There is no greater testament to the season he’s having than the fact his teammate Nkunku can’t get in the team.