'First time I saw Chukwueze was yesterday' – Fulham coach Silva on deadline day signing

Fulham manager Marco Silva has expressed confidence in new signing Samuel Chukwueze, highlighting the Nigerian international's ability to strengthen the club’s wide options.

Chukwueze arrived at Craven Cottage on deadline day, joining on loan with an option to making the move permanent at the end of the campaign.

The former Villarreal wonderkid had a tough time at AC Milan, scoring eight goals and providing six assists in 70 matches across all competitions.

Speaking ahead of the Premier League clash, Silva said Chukwueze’s arrival will provide a major boost to the team’s attacking depth.

"We believe the profiles of Chukwueze and Kevin will add to what we’ve been looking for in those areas of the pitch,” Marco Silva said at the pre-match press conference, as relayed by Fulham's official website. 

"With Adama, Harry Wilson and Alex Iwobi, they’re going to be our solutions for the wide areas of the pitch."

While noting that fellow summer arrival Kevin Santos has already settled in well, Silva hinted that  Chukwueze is gradually adapting to his new surroundings after linking up with the squad following Super Eagles duty.

"Kevin has settled in well. He’s working hard to understand everything we need from him. He’s very young, 22-years-old, but he has the experience of playing Champions League and European games.

"The first time I saw Chukwueze and Jonah [Kusi-Asare] was yesterday, but Kevin is slightly different because he’s been with us for the last 10 days."

The 26-year-old is expected to be in contention for his debut this weekend when Fulham host Leeds United. 

Chukwueze will be eager to make a bright start in England and reignite his career.

Adeyemi Adewale

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