Enzo Maresca sends Cole Palmer message after Nicolas Jackson ends goal drought (2025)

Enzo Maresca claims he never doubted Nicolas Jackson after the Chelsea striker netted his first goal in over four months in the 1-0 win over Everton at Stamford Bridge

Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca insists he's never had doubts over match-winner Nicolas Jackson or Cole Palmer - despite their struggles in front of goal. Jackson netted for the first time in more than four months to down Everton as Palmer's barren run extended to a staggering 17 games in all competitions.

Maresca said of the duo and heroic goalkeeper Robert Sanchez, who played a vital role in the victory after several impressive stops: "We've said many times that we don't have doubts with the ones that have struggled for parts of the season like Nico, Cole and Robert. It's the moment that you then have to support them even more.

"Nico finally scored a goal today, hopefully Cole can soon score goals but I think overall, Cole's performance today was very good, sacrificing himself and pressing well. It's just a matter of time for all of them and for sure they are going to help us."

Maresca also showered goalkeeper Sanchez in praise because the Spaniard has had to battle through adversity on several occasions this season.

He continued: "The team know that for Robert it hasn't been a good moment, they tried to support him and to help him. That's why they all celebrated with him at the end.

"Robert has already had many good moments this season. The one recently was against Tottenham, if you remember at home we were winning 1-0 and in the 90th minute he did a great save.

"It's normal that as a human being you always remember the bad things and not the good things. So about Robert, probably we remember just the mistake but also he had some very good moments with us. Hopefully he can continue until the end."

Maresca insists he's pleased with the recent mentality of his side after building upon last weekend's crucial 2-1 late win at Fulham, adding: "I'm pleased with the mentality. I think the second half against Fulham, the reaction was fantastic. For sure today we start the game in the same way. As you said, at this stage of the season the result is important, it's the main thing."

Meanwhile David Moyes dug out Everton striker Beto for losing the ball for Jackson's opener.

Moyes said: "He has to retain the ball, simple as that. We played a ball into the forward’s feet, we hope that Beto retains possession but we lose it and they go and get a goal, these moments happen. We’re trying to become better, we’re trying to encourage the players to play, while you do that, you’re liable to mistakes.”

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