Jackson has made an excellent start to the campaign, with eight goals scored and three assists registered in 14 Premier League matches. Those contributions have been significant too; the 23-year-old has broken the deadlock on six occasions, a feat only bettered by one player.

That Jackson didn't find the net against Tottenham caused personal disappointment – no bad thing for a forward. Yet it was his involvement after Cole Palmer had levelled the contest from the penalty spot that left a lasting impression on Maresca.

‘Nico was upset and sad because he didn’t score,' Maresca explained ahead of our Premier League clash against Brentford. 'But Nico – and it’s something important for you to highlight – did the most important thing in the game against Tottenham.

'After we scored to make it 2-2 with the penalty from Cole, everyone went to be with Cole, but only one player went to get the ball and bring it back to the middle to start the match again. That was Nico.

'That shows the desire of Nico to win. Ten players go to celebrate, one brings the ball back to the halfway line. That shows how Nico is there, and that moment for me is the most important of the game.'

Another contribution from Jackson highlighted by supporters came after Enzo Fernandez fired the Blues ahead at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. The Argentine midfielder attempted to remove his shirt in jubilation, but Jackson pulled it back down to ensure that wasn't possible.

It meant Fernandez avoided a yellow card, something Maresca says was important.

‘Some yellow cards we deserve, some we didn’t deserve, some were because we did something wrong,' said the Blues head coach.

'For sure, if we can avoid yellow cards then it’s much better. That Nico and Enzo moment was a good example.’