Chelsea Strengthen Champions League Hopes With Nervy Win Over Everton

Chelsea enhanced their hopes of qualifying for the Champions League after striker Nicolas Jackson ended a 13-game goal drought to clinch a crucial 1-0 victory over Everton on Saturday.

Jackson found the net in the first half at Stamford Bridge, scoring for the first time since December.

The often-criticised Senegalese striker's 10th goal of the season proved enough to lift Enzo Maresca's side into fourth place in the Premier League.

It marked a second consecutive league win for Chelsea, a vital boost to their bid for a top-five finish.

The Blues could slip to fifth if Newcastle defeat third-bottom Ipswich later on Saturday, but Jackson's winner ensured they remain firmly in the hunt to return to Europes elite competition with just four matches remaining.