Nigerian winger, Samuel Chukwueze walked off the pitch at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Saturday to warm applause from the Fulham supporters, after a performance that felt like a turning point in his Premier League journey.

Samuel Chukwueze, who has had to be patient for opportunities, delivered a display full of intent, resilience and belief, earning him the Man of the Match award in Fulham’s 2-1 victory.

The 26-year-old set the tone early, picking out Kenny Tete with a clever pass inside four minutes for the opening goal. It was the sort of moment that lifts a team and settles nerves, and it came from a player who only earned his first league start for Marco Silva a week ago.

Chukwueze also came close to getting his first goal for the club, striking the woodwork in the tenth minute before missing a clear chance later on.

After weeks of trying to rediscover his rhythm, Chukwueze looked like a footballer playing with renewed purpose. Speaking to Sky Sports afterwards, he seemed genuinely taken aback by the attention.

“I wasn’t expecting it today. But I was focusing on doing the hard work,” he said.

“The last months have been a bit difficult, but I kept my head down and kept working, and I took the opportunity today.

“They push me really hard in training and keep me motivated. We are so proud of the result today. We worked for it in the training pitch.

“The players gave everything on the field. We had to defend with our lives. This win is very, very important.”

Chukwueze, on loan from AC Milan with an option for Fulham to buy for around €25 million, now appears determined to show he can settle in West London long-term.

Fulham turn their attention to Manchester City on Tuesday.

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