ENZO MARESCA addressed Nicolas Jackson’s Chelsea future after the striker’s red card against Flamengo on Friday.
The forward, on as a substitute, was sent off for a reckless tackle in the 68th minute.
GettyEnzo Maresca spoke after his side’s Club World Cup defeat[/caption]
APNicolas Jackson was sent off for a reckless tackle[/caption]
AFPJackson, 24, received his marching orders in the 68th minute[/caption]
The Blues had just gone 2-1 down when Jackson was dismissed and went on to concede another when down to ten men.
After his side’s 3-1 defeat, boss Maresca was asked if Jackson’s discipline could cost him his Chelsea future, following Liam Delap‘s £30million arrival from Ipswich.
The forward will be suspended for the Blues’ final group match against ES Tunis, while he is also banned from the opening day of the new Premier League season following his red vs Newcastle last month.
Maresca, 45, said: “No, the red card has nothing to do with Nico’s future.
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“He had the first one against Newcastle when Liam was not even here and another one.
“I’m not sure that it’s 100 per cent a red card but the referee decided for that, and Nico knows very well that in both situations (it) was not something good for the team.”
After the game, Jackson posted a lengthy apology message on Instagram.
It read: “Another red card… and honestly, I’m so angry at myself.
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GettyLiam Delap is set for a further opportunity against ES Tunis[/caption]
“I work hard every day to help the team not to put us in this kind of situation.
“I still don’t fully understand how it happened. But one thing is clear: it wasn’t intentional.
“Just a football moment that went the wrong way. No excuses. I take full responsibility.”
Chelsea full-back Marc Cucurella said of his team-mate: “He’s very sad. He tried to win the ball, had the bad luck that he kicked his leg and that’s it.
“He’s a young player with a lot of quality but maybe needs to improve a little bit in these things. He has to learn.
“After the manager spoke, he said sorry, he didn’t do it on purpose. He’s a very important player for us, we miss him the next game but this is football.”
Chelsea will be back in action against ES Tunis on Tuesday night.
With Jackson banned, new arrival Delap will be in line for another start.
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