Nicolas Jackson, Chelsea's striker, has been handed a two-match ban following his red card incident during their recent Club World Cup match against Flamengo. The ban was extended by FIFA's disciplinary committee, deeming the foul serious and warranting a longer suspension than the automatic one-match ban.

The incident occurred on Friday when Jackson, who came on as a substitute in the 64th minute, was sent off just four minutes later for a studs-up challenge on Flamengo's Lucas Ayrton. The initial red card ruled him out of Chelsea's final group game against ES Tunis. However, after reviewing the footage, FIFA decided to extend the ban to two matches. This means Jackson will also miss Chelsea's potential last-16 match if they progress from their group. The decision made by the FIFA disciplinary committee is final, with no option for appeal.

Jackson's suspension presents a challenge for Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca, who will now have to strategize without the Senegalese forward for a crucial part of the tournament. It also opens the door for new Chelsea striker Liam Delap, signed from Manchester City, to stake his claim as the team's leading striker. Delap is now expected to start in Tuesday's game against ES Tunis.

This isn't Jackson's first brush with disciplinary issues. He previously served two games of a three-match suspension for a red card received against Newcastle United in the Premier League in May. The player's recent dismissals have sparked concerns about his temperament and decision-making on the field. Former Chelsea midfielder Mikel John Obi criticized Jackson's actions, labeling the red card against Flamengo a "stupid, stupid mistake."

Following the match against Flamengo, Jackson issued a public apology via social media, expressing remorse for letting his team down. He stated that the incident was unintentional and that he works hard to avoid such situations. Despite the apology, speculation has arisen regarding Jackson's future at Chelsea. Reports suggest that the club is growing increasingly frustrated with his disciplinary record and could consider selling him during the summer transfer window. Several Italian clubs are reportedly interested in acquiring his services. However, Maresca has downplayed talks of Jackson leaving, stating that the red card has "nothing to do with Nico's future".

Chelsea will have to navigate their upcoming matches without Jackson. They need to avoid defeat against ES Tunis to secure their place in the knockout stage. Jackson will be eligible to play in the Club World Cup again should Chelsea reach the quarter-finals.