Nicolas Jackson has hit the ground running at Chelsea but the striker has a huge decision to make before the new Premier League season kicks off
Chelsea have longed for a Didier Drogba or Diego Costa replacement for a while, with only Olivier Giroud coming close to fulfilling the target man role at Stamford Bridge. Numerous managers have experimented with the likes of Alvaro Morata, Timo Werner and even Kai Havertz, but neither have enjoyed nearly as much success.
While it's still early days, Jackson has made a great impression – but, he now faces his biggest decision yet. The Senegal international has been donning the No.43 shirt as a placeholder until Mauricio Pochettino officially announces his 25-man squad for the season.
He's never previously worn that number, but it's serving him well. So, with that being said, football.london has taken a closer look at what other numbers Jackson can choose from.
Seven
Following the departure of N'Golo Kante, the No.7 has become available. It's often an attractive option for those who want to follow in the footsteps of the likes of David Beckham and Cristiano Ronaldo, and it's exactly what Jackson has worn for Senegal in the past.
Eight
Eight isn't usually a popular option for striker, but that didn't stop Wayne Rooney from donning the number in his early days at Manchester United. If Jackson is a fan of the Englishman then he could try and follow suit.
Nine
The orthodox striker number which has cursed Chelsea players for years. It could be argued that Tammy Abraham has been the only person to overcome the pressure which the No.9 brings at Stamford Bridge since Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink over 20 years ago – and maybe Hernan Crespo in 2005/06.
Ten
Jackson doesn't appear to have worn the No.10 shirt before but, with Christian Pulisic vacating the jersey, it's another realistic option. However, it's likely that Mykhailo Mudryk and Christopher Nkunku will be fighting for this iconic number.
Eleven
Chelsea have been blessed with some special No.11s in the past – namely Pedro, Didier Drogba, Oscar, Damien Duff and Dennis Wise – but not so much recently. Jackson has previously admitted that Drogba is an inspiration of his so he may well choose to follow in the club legend's footsteps.
Twenty-six
While 26 is often for defender with John Terry and, more recently, Kalidou Kouliably donning the shirt, Jackson once wore the number during his time at Villarreal. After winning the hearts of so many Chelsea fans already, the Senegalese star could go one step further and take Terry's iconic jersey.
Which of the following prospects would you like to see in the first team, or loaned out for experience? Swipe to have your say...