'An option' – Palace coach considers using Uche as a striker to support or replace Mateta

Addressing the media in his pre-match press conference before Crystal Palace's Premier League clash with West Ham United at the London Stadium, manager Oliver Glasner hinted that summer signing Christantus Uche could be deployed as a striking option alongside, or in place of, Jean-Philippe Mateta.

Jean-Philippe Mateta has led the line this season, starting all eight matches for the FA Cup winners, including four in the Premier League.

Uche completed his move to Crystal Palace on deadline day, but has yet to make his starting debut, having come off the bench on his Premier League debut versus Sunderland before another substitute appearance against Millwall in the Carabao Cup. 

The Nigeria international is most comfortable in the No. 10 role, linking midfield to attack and creating chances.

However, Glasner believes Uche's physical presence gives Palace further flexibility in the final third. 

When asked whether Uche might feature alongside or instead of Mateta, Glasner was quoted as saying by Crystal Palace's official website: "Yes, he could be. He's also physical. He's an option that we are considering."

Operating higher up the pitch for Getafe last term, Uche combined productivity with creativity, recording four goals and setting up seven more for teammates over the course of 38 matches.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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