John Mikel Obi and Chelsea forward Nicolas Jackson have been at odds, CREEBHILLS reports
After Chelsea’s 2-0 loss to Manchester City, Mikel publicly criticized Jackson for missing scoring opportunities and called for a more reliable striker.
Jackson then scored in Chelsea’s next match against Southampton and told Mikel to “shut up” on social media. He also found the back of the net in the game against Crystal Palace.
Mikel has now clarified that he never labeled Jackson as a bad player despite their rift.
“I’ve always said what I’ve said about Nicolas Jackson. He is a good player, there is not once I have ever said he is a bad player,” the former Super Eagles captain told beIN Sports.
“The only criticism is his finishing needs to be much better. In terms of giving us what we want, being in the right place at the right time, he does for the team.”
Mikel Obi further said his criticism of Jackson is constructive, but the striker doesn’t see it that way:
“It’s not coming from a bad place, it’s really constructive criticism. But he doesn’t (see it that way). That’s why when he scored, he told me to shut up!”
