Super Eagles forward Christantus Uche has spoken publicly about his growing frustration as he faces the prospect of missing out on the Super Eagles’ squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The 22-year-old joined Crystal Palace on deadline day following a promising spell at Getafe, where he recorded one goal and one assist in three La Liga appearances this season.

His loan carries a conditional €20m obligation to buy if he reaches a specific number of starts. But Uche has struggled to break into Oliver Glasner’s side. Deep into December, he has made only one start in nine appearances in all competitions, totalling just 124 minutes far from enough to build momentum or strengthen his case for international selection.

The form is a sharp contrast to his Super Eagles debut in June and his breakout season in Spain last term. Uche is on Nigeria’s 55-man provisional list for AFCON 2025, but his reduced playing time places his place in the final 28-man squad in doubt.

Sensing his chances slipping, he took to Instagram to express the emotional toll of the situation.

Uche wrote: “It hurts when you go through something that kills you inside but you have to act like it doesn’t bother you at all. (Keep believing &. Faith in all things you do.”