Super Eagles duo Tolu Arokodare and Chrisantus Uche made their Premier League debuts on Saturday, days after representing Nigeria in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Arokodare, who earned a summer switch to Wolverhampton Wanderers following a prolific campaign with KRC Genk in Belgium, started in Wolves’ 1-0 defeat to Newcastle United at St. James’ Park.
The striker, however, struggled to make a mark and was substituted in the 66th minute for Colombian midfielder Jhon Arias.
At Selhurst Park, Uche, a late signing for Crystal Palace at the end of the transfer window, was introduced in the 84th minute to replace fellow new arrival Yeremy Pino.
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Despite his cameo, Palace failed to break down newly-promoted Leeds United, with the encounter ending in a goalless stalemate.
Both players had featured for Nigeria during the recent international window, with Arokodare coming off the bench against Rwanda and South Africa, while Uche was a second-half substitute in the draw versus South Africa.
Though neither made a significant impact on their league debuts, the pair will be looking to settle quickly and establish themselves in the 2025/26 Premier League season.
Meanwhile, Samuel Chukwueze was left out of Fulham’s matchday squad following his deadline-day move from AC Milan.