Christantus Uche’s palace spell ends in disappointment under Glasner

By: David Akande

Nigerian midfielder Christantus Uche may have played his last game for Crystal Palace after a disappointing loan spell at the Premier League club.

Uche joined the Eagles on a season-long loan from Getafe CF but has not featured since the 3-1 win over Tottenham Hotspur, despite impressing for Getafe last season.

Reports indicate that the 22-year-old has already returned to Spain after failing to meet the conditions of his loan deal, which required him to make 10 starts in the Premier League to trigger an option-to-buy clause. Getafe sporting director Toni Muñoz confirmed that the midfielder is expected to return to the Spanish club this summer.

Uche failed to make a single Premier League start during his time at Palace, making 22 appearances in all competitions with two goals and one assist. He was also left out of Crystal Palace’s squad for the second leg of their UEFA Conference League semi-final against Shakhtar Donetsk following the arrival of new signings.

With his time in England seemingly coming to an end, Uche expressed his disappointment at the lack of opportunities under Palace manager Oliver Glasner.

“I may not have had much playing time, but I am grateful to the fans who continue to support me and the team,” Uche told Nuestro CPFC.

“Your dedication and enthusiasm means a lot, and I hope you’re proud every time I get a chance to play. But maybe it won’t happen again because the coach doesn’t like me.”