This article was originally published on www.si.com as ‘Not Involved’—Enzo Maresca Offers Update on Nicolas Jackson’s Chelsea Future. Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has confirmed Nicolas Jackson has not been banished from training but remains out of contention while uncertainty surrounding his future at the club continues to swirl.

Enzo Maresca believes his Chelsea players must be relishing their shortened pre-season - as they haven't had to do any running! He also added that it was "not fair" for the club to reply solely on Cole Palmer.

The 24-year-old, who is currently contracted to Chelsea until 2033, has made 81 appearances since joining from Villarreal in June 2023 and has netted 30 goals during that time

Nicholas Jackson has been told he is free to leave the club after the signing of Liam Delap and Joao Pedro this summer.

Chelsea are not desperate to sell the 24-year-old this summer, but recognise that he may want to go elsewhere to be a lead striker.

Enzo Maresca has ruled out Nicolas Jackson’s future at Chelsea, making it clear that the Senegalese striker is expendable.

Enzo Maresca has refused to engage with Arne Slot after the Liverpool boss claimed he thought Chelsea would've already won the Premier League title by now given their investment