From Nigeria to England: Arokodare, Uche make Premier League debuts, Chukwueze benched

Femi Fabunmi 

Super Eagles players Tolu Arokodare and Chrisantus Uche both featured in the English Premier League for the first time on Saturday, just days after representing Nigeria in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

Arokodare, who joined Wolverhampton Wanderers from Belgian side Genk this summer, started in Wolves’ 1-0 loss to Newcastle United at St. James’ Park.

The striker found it hard to make an impact and was substituted in the 66th minute for Colombian midfielder Jhon Arias.

At Selhurst Park, Uche, who recently signed for Crystal Palace, came on in the 84th minute to replace new teammate Yeremy Pino.

Palace could not find a breakthrough as they settled for a goalless draw against newly-promoted Leeds United.

Both players were also part of Nigeria’s recent international games, with Arokodare playing against Rwanda and South Africa, while Uche featured as a substitute in the 1-1 draw with South Africa.

Though their debuts were quiet, the duo will aim to settle quickly and prove themselves in the 2025/26 Premier League season.

Meanwhile, Samuel Chukwueze, who sealed a late move from AC Milan to Fulham, was not included in the squad for his new team’s match.