'Impact was there' - Marco Silva singles out Chukwueze for praise despite Fulham's defeat to Everton

Fulham manager Marco Silva has praised Nigerian winger Samuel Chukwueze for his second-half impact despite the Cottagers 2-0 defeat to Everton in the Premier League on Saturday evening.

Chukwueze, who joined Fulham on loan from AC Milan during the summer transfer window, was introduced in the 59th minute for Harry Wilson as Fulham trailed at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.

His introduction improved Fulham's performance, injecting pace and creativity into their attack after a disappointing first-half display.

Speaking after the game, Silva admitted his side fell short of expectations but acknowledged the positive influence of the Nigerian international and fellow substitute Rodrigo.

"We played for twenty minutes. The first 20 minutes of the second half was the only moment in the game where I felt our team, on the ball and off the ball, were doing the things that we should and we prepared for the game,” Silva said to Fulham's official webpage.

"And of course, the impact from Chukwueze and Rodrigo was there but before it should have been much better, that's the reality."

Chukwueze has endured a slow start to life in England, registering just one assist in five league appearances so far this season.

However, his improved showing against Everton could signal a turnaround in form.

Despite his struggles at club level, the 26-year-old was included in Nigeria's squad to face Gabon in the 2026 FIFA World Cup playoffs in Morocco this week. 

Adeyemi Adewale

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