Why Nicolas Jackson was not sent off for slapping opponent in Chelsea vs Nottingham Forest – journalist

Nicolas Jackson did not enjoy his best outing of the season yesterday as Chelsea were held to a 1-1 draw at Stamford Bridge by Nottingham Forest.

The Senegal international never really got a clear-cut chance in front of goal, and was replaced by Christopher Nkunku in their attempts to win the game late.

Jackson has enjoyed a very strong start to the season at Chelsea, with many crediting Enzo Maresca for beginning to get the best out of the striker.

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Photo by MI News/NurPhoto via Getty Images

A video emerged after the game of the 23-year-old seeming to strike opposing defender Morato with a slap during a scuffle between both sets of players.

It has been claimed that Jackson faces a nervy wait to see if he will pick up a retrospective ban off the back of this.

Jackson slap not deemed violent conduct by VAR

However, there may be some light that according to journalist Kieran Gill, the incident was seen by VAR at the time, however was not deemed enough to see him sent off.

He said: “Told VAR did study Nicolas Jackson’s “slap” on Morato but decided it did not constitute violent conduct from the Chelsea striker.”

Told VAR did study Nicolas Jackson's "slap" on Morato but decided it did not constitute violent conduct from the Chelsea striker

— Kieran Gill (@kierangill_DM) October 6, 2024

Jackson would no doubt be a huge miss if he was to be banned from any upcoming games, with their next fixture taking place at Anfield against Liverpool.

Christopher Nkunku would replace Jackson

The striker’s ability to carry the ball forwards and retain possession has caused issues in the past for Virgil van Dijk and co, and is something they would rely on heavily if they are to get a result against the league leaders.

If he was to be missing, the replacement of Nkunku is certainly no real downgrade, with the Frenchman actually finding the net against this opponent in one of his few appearances last season.

His form in front of goal this year has certainly warranted a chance, and he could be about to get that when the Blues return after the international break.

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