Fulham's recent struggles continued with another defeat, this time a 2-1 loss to Crystal Palace at Craven Cottage. This follows a high-scoring 5-3 defeat to Manchester City in their previous outing, highlighting a period of challenging form for The Cottagers. Despite the team's overall performance, Nigerian winger Samuel Chukwueze has emerged as a player attracting significant attention.

Chukwueze's impact has been particularly notable in his role as an explosive super-sub. His electrifying appearances off the bench, especially a sensational brace against Manchester City, where he scored twice to inspire a dramatic 5-4 fightback, have showcased his game-changing ability. His season statistics reflect this, boasting the Premier League's best goal or assist involvement ratio in terms of minutes played, averaging a goal or assist every 46 minutes this season (minimum 200 minutes played). Signed on loan from AC Milan with a potential permanent £24 million transfer, Chukwueze initially faced doubts regarding his fitness and consistency, often being deployed as a late offensive spark rather than a starter.

However, his blistering performances have forced manager Marco Silva's hand. For the crucial London derby against Crystal Palace, Chukwueze was finally rewarded with a place in the starting line-up, marking a significant vote of confidence from Silva. The manager's recent comments, stating, "He’s getting better and better. We need him to start games and maintain that intensity for the full 90 minutes," underscored this shift in trust. Chukwueze's inclusion in the starting XI came as Timothy Castagne replaced Ryan Sessegnon in defence, showcasing a tactical adjustment by Fulham. Crystal Palace also made changes, with Daniel Munoz, the goal-scorer in their previous win over Burnley, missing from Oliver Glasner's squad.

The match against Crystal Palace saw Eddie Nketiah give the visitors the lead just 20 minutes into the first half. Fulham managed to draw level before the halftime break, with Harry Wilson scoring after good work by Alex Iwobi and a subsequent one-two with Raul Jimenez. However, despite the equalizer, Chukwueze, who had been highlighted as a serious danger, was largely kept quiet by Palace's defense, unable to replicate his recent impressive form. In the second half, Palace pushed for a winner and ultimately secured it in the 87th minute, clinching a 2-1 victory.

This game represented a crucial moment for Chukwueze's career at Fulham, a chance to prove his capability as a starter. While his individual performance against Palace did not match his heroics against Manchester City, his elevation to the starting eleven signifies a turning point in his Fulham journey. As Fulham aims to secure vital points, Chukwueze's form will be paramount, particularly with his impending departure for the Africa Cup of Nations.