Fulham Suffer Setback as Samuel Chukwueze Remains Sidelined Ahead of Newcastle Clash
Fulham will once again be without Nigerian winger Samuel Chukwueze when they take on Newcastle United in Saturday’s Premier League fixture.
Chukwueze, who joined Fulham this summer, is still recovering from a calf injury he picked up while on international duty with Nigeria two weeks ago. The winger was also unavailable for the Cottagers’ narrow 1–0 defeat to Arsenal last weekend.
Manager Marco Silva confirmed during his pre-match press conference that the 25-year-old is still not fit to return to action, alongside several other injured players.
“Joachim Andersen, as we expected and as I mentioned after the match, has a muscle injury. It’s not so serious, but he is going to be out and not available for the Newcastle match. Antonee Robinson neither, as well. Chukwueze still out, Rodrigo out,” Silva said via the club’s official website.
The absence of Chukwueze — who has made just two league appearances for Fulham — comes as a blow to Silva’s attacking options, especially with the team still struggling for creativity and pace in the final third.
💭 Opinion: Fulham Missing the Spark That Chukwueze Brings
For a side like Fulham, every bit of flair and explosiveness counts — and that’s exactly what Samuel Chukwueze brings to the table. His pace, dribbling, and unpredictability on the wings have the power to change the course of a match, especially against strong sides like Newcastle.
It’s understandable that Marco Silva doesn’t want to rush him back, but the team’s recent performances show just how much they miss his direct attacking style. The Nigerian’s ability to stretch defenses and create chances would add an entirely new dimension to Fulham’s play.
Still, Fulham’s medical team will have to manage his recovery with care. Calf injuries are tricky — a premature return could worsen the problem and keep him out even longer.
As fans eagerly await his comeback, one thing is clear: when Chukwueze finally returns, Fulham will be a far more dangerous side going forward.
⚽ Can Fulham find the goals they need without their Nigerian winger? Or will Chukwueze’s absence continue to haunt Silva’s side in front of goal?
