A shocking altercation marred Chelsea’s 1-1 draw with Nottingham Forest at Stamford Bridge, with Blues striker Nicolas Jackson appearing to slap Forest defender Morato in a heated exchange.
The incident occurred in the 88th minute, sparked by Neco Williams shoving Chelsea’s Marc Cucurella into Forest manager Enzo Maresca’s technical area.
However, the confrontation quickly escalated into a mass brawl involving players and coaches from both teams.
Meanwhile, SunSport footage shows Nicolas Jackson, who had been substituted in the 81st minute, rushing onto the pitch and becoming entangled in the brawl.
The Chelsea striker appears to reach out and slap Morato, prompting a fierce reaction from the Forest player.
Jackson was swiftly dragged away by his Chelsea team-mates as tensions continued to simmer.
Despite his involvement, Jackson avoided a booking, but the incident may still warrant disciplinary action.
Meanwhile, the ill-tempered 1-1 draw saw a total of 11 yellow cards handed out with Chelsea players Neco Williams, Marc Cucurella, and Levi Colwill among the recipients.
Nottingham Forest James Ward-Prowse received two yellow cards, resulting in his ejection from the Premier League game on Sunday, October 6.
However, in a striking contrast to the heated scenes unfolding around him, Cole Palmer remained remarkably composed, casually sitting on the pitch as Chelsea and Nottingham Forest players clashed in a tense altercation.
Potential Ban Looms for Chelsea’s Nicholas Jackson
Referee Jarred Gillett observed Jackson making contact with Morato, but chose not to penalize him.
However, the Football Association may not take the same approach.
Both Chelsea and Forest are facing fines for their players’ behavior, and Jackson could potentially be suspended for violent conduct after his involvement in the post-match altercation following a late foul committed by Neco Williams.
As it stands, Chelsea will anxiously await the outcome, hoping their striker avoids suspension.
Nicolas Jackson has been impressive for the Blues having netted four goals in eight games across all competitions so far this season. The Blues are currently positioned at fourth in the Premier League table.
Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca Reveals He Likes The Team’s Fighting Spirit
Despite Chelsea racking up six yellow cards for the second time this season against Forest, resulting in a £50,000 fine, Enzo Maresca has encouraged the Blues fighting spirit.
In a post match interview, Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca encouraged his team to continue fighting and praised their team spirit.
He said: “I like the team, the way they’re fighting and the way they are becoming a team. I don’t see any problems with that.”
Maresca expressed his satisfaction with the unity and fighting spirit of the team, emphasizing that he sees no problem with their aggressive play.
Maresca also mentioned that he was in the right place during the incident and commended the team for fighting together despite challenges.
He added: “Do I prefer it when something like that happens? I like the team spirit and don’t see any problem.”
“I was in my area, so I was where I had to be.
“In terms of emotion, the team is fighting together. Someone tried to kick me, I fell down.
“But if you ask me about the team spirit, the way they are fighting together, I’m very happy.”
What’s next for Nicolas Jackson and Chelsea?
Chelsea will face Liverpool in the Premier League 13 days after international break.
What’s your take on Nicolas Jackson’s unruly behavior and Palmer maintaining a calm sitting position despite the heated controversy? Please, share your thoughts with us in the comments box below:
