Is Nicolas Jackson banned for Conference League final after Newcastle vs Chelsea red card?

Chelsea's defeat to Newcastle United was a major blow in the race for Champions League football, made worse by Nicolas Jackson's red card during the first half.

Sandro Tonali had already struck for the Magpies in what was a crucial battle for either side to secure a top-five place in the Premier League.

when lead into a challenge on opposition defender Sven Botman with his elbow.

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Referee David Brooks only produced the yellow card at first, though VAR Darren England got involved to prompt a review. The on-field decision was changed and the No.15 was sent off for serious foul play.

The Blues would concede again in the dying embers of the second half, losing by a two-goal margin in the end but were able to keep their place in the top-five after Nottingham Forest failed to capitalise on facing already relegated Leicester City.

With Jackson sent of for serious foul play via a straight red card, the suspension he has earned is for three matches.

It means he will not play again in the league in 2024/25, missing fixtures against Manchester United (May 16, H) and Nottingham Forest (May 25, A).

However, Chelsea also have the opportunity to win silverware by winning the Europa Conference final on May 28. So will he miss that?

's side secured their place by beating Swedish semi-final opposition Djurgarden 5-1 over two legs, and .

Because red cards earned in domestic English football do not cross over into UEFA competition, meaning Jackson will be able to feature in the final.

He has played just two matches in the Conference League this term, scoring the same number of goals.

What won't be of benefit, is that the Senegal international will not be allowed to build up match fitness by featuring in either of Chelsea's final two league matches this season.