Samuel Chukwueze reflects on first Premier League start: “The last months were difficult, but I took my opportunity”

Super Eagles winger Samuel Chukwueze has opened up emotionally about his surprise first Premier League start for Fulham, revealing the tough months behind the scenes and the drive that pushed him through to a vital win.

Chukwueze was in fine form as Fulham took all three points and regional bragging rights following a deserved 2-1 win against Tottenham on Saturday night.

Fulham stunned Tottenham at London Stadium, racing to a 2-0 lead in just six minutes. Chukwueze sparked the opener with a pinpoint pass to Kenny Tete for a clinical finish, then indirectly set up Harry Wilson's 25-yard stunner off a Spurs goalkeeper blunder.

Tottenham pulled one back via Mohammed Kudus's thunderous second-half strike, but Fulham's defence, bolstered by Nigerians Calvin Bassey and Alex Iwobi, held firm despite Spurs' pressure.​

The 26-year-old winger, on loan from AC Milan, dazzled with two chances created, a key pass, the most dribbles completed, and a shot off the woodwork before exiting in the 76th minute.

This came days after Fulham boss Marco Silva urged consistency post his super-sub heroics in the 1-0 Sunderland win.​

In an emotional interview, the Super Eagles star opened up about the surprise start and his journey since the move from AC Milan.

“I wasn't expecting it today, but I was focusing on doing the hard work. The last months have been a bit difficult but I kept my head down and kept working. And I took the opportunity today.”

He praised his squad's unbreakable spirit: “[My team-mates] 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 all our life. This win is very, very important.”

Chukwueze's breakout, following five sub appearances, fuels hopes he carries this "club magic" to the Super Eagles.

With AFCON 2025 looming, fans demand that the Villarreal and Milan alum replicate this fire internationally. Fulham's third straight win hands Spurs a nightmare run, while Chukwueze eyes a permanent starting berth.