Chukwueze Ignites Fulham’s Late Win as Silva Weighs First Start for In-Form Winger

|By Babatunji Wusu

Fulham boss Marco Silva has hailed Samuel Chukwueze after the Nigerian winger came off the bench to spark the club’s decisive 1–0 victory over Sunderland.

Chukwueze delivered the match-winning moment in the closing stages, whipping a precise cross that Raul Jimenez buried for the lone goal. The 26-year-old was electric throughout his cameo, creating two key chances, completing all his dribbles, and winning every duel against an in-form Sunderland side. Sunday’s game marked his fifth league appearance—all from the bench—and his second assist of the season.

Silva confirmed he is now strongly considering starting the winger.

“We kept possession well and produced a good overall performance. Massive impact from Emile Smith Rowe and Chukwueze,” Silva said. “We are going to need Samuel from the start, but we will lose him to AFCON soon. Clean sheet, solid.”

With his current form, Chukwueze’s first Premier League start for Fulham appears imminent.