Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has lavished praise on Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson as the Villans prepare for a tough Premier League encounter at Stamford Bridge on Sunday, Soccernet.football reports.
Emery, renowned for his managerial expertise across Europe, led Villa to a remarkable fourth-place finish last season, securing Champions League qualification.
Ahead of their visit to west London, the 53-year-old expressed admiration for Jackson, whom he coached during his time at Villarreal.
The Senegalese forward played 27 matches under Emery’s tutelage, and the Villa boss shared insights into Jackson’s growth as a player.
“He was starting the pre-season with the U21s, and when he was progressively coming to train with us, he was showing his potential,” Emery told SkySports. “We worked during the one year on his skill, he improved his understanding better, how he could exploit his potential.”
Emery continued: “His attitude as well was fantastic. He was always learning, always demanding to train more, to be focused. He was also being a professional every day out of training sessions at home because he was focused on football like the first priority in his life.”
Jackson has repaid that hard work with a strong start to his Chelsea career, netting seven goals in 13 Premier League appearances this season.
His sharpness in front of goal, honed under the guidance of Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca, has made him a standout performer despite the competition from Christopher Nkunku.
Emery also praised Maresca’s influence at Chelsea, noting the team’s progress under the Italian.
Villa’s trip to Stamford Bridge promises a fascinating battle between two in-form teams and a chance for Jackson to showcase his continued development.