Jackson strikes as Chelsea boost Champions League hopes
Jackson, who has struggled with form and injury this season, struck in the first half at Stamford Bridge
Under-pressure Chelsea boosted their bid to qualify for the Champions League as Nicolas Jackson ended his 13-game goal drought to seal a crucial 1-0 win against Everton on Saturday.
Jackson, who has struggled with form and injury this season, struck in the first half at Stamford Bridge to get back on the scoresheet for the first time since December.
The Senegal forward's 10th goal of the season was enough to lift Enzo Maresca's side into fourth place in the Premier League, with the Blues' second successive Premier League win vital in their attempt to finish in the top five.
Chelsea might drop to fifth or lower depending on other results this weekend, but Jackson's winner ensured they remain in the hunt to return to the Champions League with four games left.
Aston Villa, Newcastle United, Manchester City, Nottingham Forest, and the Blues are all chasing three places within the top five.
Despite the three points, it was indeed yet another nervous afternoon for Maresca, who insisted this week that his first season at Chelsea has not been a failure after criticism of the Italian's conservative tactics.
The win, despite giving Chelsea some breathing space, will not have alleviated fan fears over the lackluster displays, and with four games left, Champions League football will determine whether Maresca is viewed positively or negatively.
"We are happy with the three points. We take it game by game, and we hope for Champions League football," he said in the aftermath of the match.
Chelsea's remaining Premier League fixtures are tricky to say the least.
They face Liverpool, Newcastle, Manchester United, and Nottingham Forest in their remaining fixtures.
It will be no easy task at all for the Blues and Maresca, whose performances will definitely be under a lot of scrutiny.