Uche Poised For Crystal Palace Debut Vs Sunderland
Nigeria international Chrisantus Uche could make his first appearance for Crystal Palace when they face newly promoted Sunderland at Selhurst Park on Saturday.
Palace manager Oliver Glasner confirmed the possibility during his pre-match press conference on Friday. He revealed that while the game will come too soon for injured trio Adam Wharton, Ismaïla Sarr, and Eddie Nketiah, Uche and fellow new arrival Jaydee Canvot may be included in the squad.
There was also positive news for Spanish winger Yeremy Pino, who made his debut off the bench against Aston Villa and is now in contention for a starting place.
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"Fortunately, all the international players came back healthy and fit so that everybody of them is available," Glasner said. "At the moment it looks like Adam Wharton, Ismaïla Sarr and Eddie Nketiah are available at least against Liverpool, so in two weeks. That’s a great job from our medical department.
"Tomorrow none of them are available. Millwall, none of them is available, maybe Adam and Eddie have a chance for West Ham. We have 18 fit on-field players – and all the new signings will be in the squad tomorrow. There is a good chance that Yeremy [Pino] makes his starting debut for Crystal Palace tomorrow.
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Uche joined the FA Cup champions this summer from Spanish side Getafe. Earlier this week, he featured for the Super Eagles in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against South Africa, coming on as a second-half substitute in the 1-1 draw.
Editorial
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We view Uche’s as a significant moment both for the player and Nigerian football. A move to Crystal Palace, now an established Premier League club, brings with it intense expectations. For Uche, this is an opportunity to showcase not just his individual talent but also the resilience and adaptability Nigerian players are known for.
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We believe Palace’s faith in young signings signals a strategy rooted in development and long-term planning. For Uche, being trusted to step into such a competitive environment so quickly after his transfer shows the regard Glasner has for his abilities. It is not merely about filling squad numbers—it is about adding depth and variety to the team’s midfield options.
We also recognise the pressure of such a debut. Playing at Selhurst Park in front of demanding supporters and against a newly promoted side hungry for points will be no small task. Yet, if Uche embraces this challenge, it could become a launchpad for greater opportunities in the Premier League.
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We remain convinced that moments like this matter. Each Nigerian player who thrives in Europe strengthens the bridge for others to follow. Uche’s debut could mark the start of a new chapter—not just in his career, but in the story of Nigerian football’s expanding influence abroad.
Did You Know?
Crystal Palace won their first-ever FA Cup in 2025, beating Aston Villa in the final.
Uche began his professional career at Getafe, making his La Liga debut at just 19 years old.
Selhurst Park, Palace’s home ground, has a capacity of 25,486 and is known for its electrifying atmosphere.
Sunderland and Crystal Palace last met in the Premier League in 2017, with Sunderland winning 4-0.
Palace’s manager Oliver Glasner previously led Eintracht Frankfurt to UEFA Europa League glory in 2022.