Crystal Palace Drop Super Eagles Midfielder After Late Return from Nigeria Duty

Crystal Palace Drop Super Eagles Midfielder After Late Return from Nigeria Duty

By Admin 

Crystal Palace midfielder Christantus Uche was excluded from the squad in the club's recent Premier League defeat to Bournemouth after returning late from international duty with Nigeria, according to multiple reports.

Uche, 22, was a late call-up to the Super Eagles squad during the last international break, stepping in for the injured Cyriel Dessers. Despite traveling with the team, he did not feature in either of Nigeria’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho and Benin, remaining on the bench throughout.

Upon his return to England, Uche was left out of Palace manager Oliver Glasner’s matchday squad entirely for the weekend fixture. According to fan outlet We Are Palace, his omission was linked to his delayed return from international duty, though the club has not issued an official statement on the matter.

It remains unclear whether Uche’s absence was a disciplinary decision or due to concerns over match fitness, as his late arrival may have prevented him from participating in key pre-match training sessions.

The former Getafe player joined Crystal Palace on a one-year loan deal during the summer transfer window, with reports suggesting the move includes a structured fee agreement valued between €20 million and €22 million.

Since arriving at Selhurst Park, Uche has been gradually integrated into the first team. He has made two substitute appearances in the Premier League, totaling just 25 minutes, and featured in the EFL Cup, coming on at halftime in the club’s victory over Millwall.

The situation will raise questions about Uche’s short-term role under Glasner, particularly as Palace look to climb the table and strengthen squad cohesion during a crucial stretch of the season.