Chelsea’s gritty 1-0 win over Tottenham on Thursday night may have been decided by a single goal, but for those watching closely, it was the return of Nicolas Jackson that truly shifted the Blues’ momentum.

The Senegalese striker made his comeback from injury and instantly reminded fans and critics alike why Enzo Maresca rates him so highly. While Jackson didn’t get on the scoresheet, his presence changed the entire dynamic of the Chelsea attack—and his manager didn’t hesitate to highlight his importance.

“Nico for us, I’ve said many times since we started, that he is an important player because he’s a threat for the defensive line,” Maresca said after the match. “Off the ball, he’s pressing everyone. For sure, with Nico we are a different team.”

This isn’t just coach-speak. Jackson’s energy, movement, and tireless pressing give Chelsea a different edge. His ability to stretch defences and create space for attacking midfielders like Cole Palmer and Enzo Fernandez adds a layer of unpredictability to Maresca’s system.

It’s no coincidence that Chelsea looked sharper with Jackson back in the starting XI. His relentless off-the-ball work unsettled Spurs’ backline and allowed the Blues to control the tempo in a high-stakes derby.

Some fans have criticised Jackson this season for his finishing or lack of consistency in front of goal, but Maresca clearly sees the bigger picture. Jackson isn’t just a striker—he’s a tactical weapon. He sets the tone from the front, forces errors, and helps Chelsea dominate possession through proactive pressing.

With the business end of the season approaching and every point crucial in the race for Europe, having a fully fit Nicolas Jackson could make all the difference. He might not always be the headline-maker, but to Enzo Maresca—Jackson is proving to be absolutely indispensable.