Glasner Praises Uche’s Impact Despite Goalless Draw With Sunderland

Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner was full of praise for Nigerian forward Christantus Uche after the youngster made a lively debut in his side’s 0-0 draw with Sunderland.

Uche, who joined Palace from Getafe, came on in the 84th minute and quickly made his presence felt producing a clever cross and forcing a sharp save from Sunderland keeper Robin Roefs. Glasner believed the Nigeria international deserved more “The same with Uche at the end … I thought he could help us by adding a bit more physicality to our attack. He was great he had a big chance as well. I think we could have gotten a penalty in that situation.”

The decision not to award a late penalty after Uche went down in the box drew Glasner’s frustration. “For me it was an easy goal … the VAR had to intervene in this situation, but it didn’t happen,” he said.

Editorial

We were encouraged by the composure and spirit Christantus Uche displayed in his Premier League debut. Coming on late in a goalless stalemate, he immediately looked for opportunities, proving willing to take responsibility in a tense match environment. His activity in the final minutes highlighted what we believe is a forward with both ambition and confidence traits necessary at the top level.

There is, however, more to this performance than just energy. Uche’s willingness to drive forward into attacking positions and to aim for moments of impact demonstrated his understanding of the role Palace expect of him. He didn’t hesitate. That said, expecting him to dismantle a well-organised Sunderland side in a handful of minutes was unrealistic. What was more important was that he looked comfortable, driven and focused traits that may, over time, turn into tangible contributions.

Glasner’s comments reveal that the club see Uche as more than just a squad option; they clearly see him as someone who can influence matches, particularly when it comes to introducing physical presence and attacking urgency. The penalty call that went against Palace will do little to calm expectations, but it also underlines the kind of high-stakes situations in which Uche will be expected to make a difference. Whether he can consistently trigger those moments remains to be seen, but the early signs are promising.

We believe that while this was a goalless game, it was not a wasted one for Uche. This debut offered a glimpse of his potential and what Palace might build around him. If he continues to approach matches with that level of intent and belief, then his presence could become a game changer not just late on, but from the outset.

Did You Know?

1. Christantus Uche joined Crystal Palace from Spanish side Getafe in the final hours of the summer 2025 transfer window.
2. Uche received just two training sessions with Palace teammates before making his debut, due to his recent Super Eagles call-up.
3. In his short cameo, Uche completed a clever cross and nearly scored with a half-volley that was kept out by Sunderland goalkeeper Robin Roefs.
4. Glasner believed Uche’s late involvement added more physicality and presence to Crystal Palace’s attack highlighting the strategic reason behind his substitution.
5. The penalty shout involving Uche which was dismissed after VAR review became a focal point of post-match discussion, with Glasner indicating that he felt the referee had made the wrong call.