$1.6 Million Head Coach Sends Clear Message After College Football Re… — and more

The Times have just dropped a rather interesting exclusive about Nicolas Jackson, just when we least expected it.

They say that Bayern Munich, who have the striker on loan, are “unlikely” to make the deal permanent. So far, so obvious.

But they also say that “all options” are on the table, including Jackson potentially returning and re-joining Chelsea’s first team picture under Liam Rosenior.

It never really seemed like Jackson’s problem with Maresca, who always trusted and used him. His move came about because the club saw a big chance to profit on selling him, and because the Senegal star was keen to go.

Jackson story smells of value protection ahead of fascinating summer

Nicolas Jackson to return to Chelsea this summer according to the Times.

This is pretty clearly a brief from the sporting directors, who see their chances of getting a big pay day for Jackson at Bayern fading, and now want to try and preserve his value by making it clear that he could return to the Chelsea team and play an important role.

If it’s clear that bridges have been burned, they can only expect low ball offers in the summer. They have to give the impression that the door is open for a return – and who knows, maybe with a new manager in place, it is.

In other news…

Joe Cole’s old quotes about a Chelsea transfer target have been dug up after the rumours returned to the fore today. He’s clearly a big fan.

Chelsea have drawn Wrexham in the FA Cup fifth round, a really fun and interesting draw – but one we have to win.

People are bending over backwards to try and find nice things to say about Liam Delap’s performance on Friday against Hull, including the crew on the London is Blue podcast.

Follow Daily Mail Sport's live blog for the latest news and updates of the fifth round draw of the FA Cup.