'I talked to him' – Crystal Palace boss Glasner lifts the lid on Uche's preferred position

Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner has lifted the lid on Christantus Uche's best role on the pitch, revealing the Super Eagles star has already shared where he feels most comfortable.

The Nigeria international joined the Eagles on transfer deadline day, signing a season-long loan deal that includes an obligation to buy next summer.

Uche has enjoyed a remarkable rise since his arrival in Europe three years ago as a central defender.

He was later converted into a holding midfielder before being deployed primarily as a centre forward at Getafe, a transformation that has underlined his versatility. 

Glasner confirmed that Uche's versatility makes him an asset across the front line but stressed that both player and coaching staff see his future in a specific role.

"I think he can play all three attacking positions. I also talked to him, and he feels most comfortable in the number 10 position – and that’s also where we see him," Glasner said at Friday's press conference

The Austrian coach went on to explain the tactical thinking behind Uche's deployment, highlighting his physical attributes and ability to influence play when facing goal.

"With JP and Eddie Nketiah as our number 9s, we were looking for a player who could be a physical presence from the [number] 10.

"That’s similar to Ismaila - he could play as a [number] nine, but we think he’s better when he has the game in front of him and can attack the space.

"That’s what we see with Uche as well. And like with Ismaila, it will take a little bit of time. He’ll get that time, and then he will show up for us."

Uche  started training with his new Palace teammates on Thursday ahead of a potential Premier League debut against Sunderland.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

Copyright ANS
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from allnigeriasoccer.com