The Fulham gaffer has seemingly handed Eric Chelle, Nigeria's AFCON 2025 coach, the tactical masterplan to unleash the full potential of Super Eagles star Samuel Chukwueze by deploying him on the left wing.

This strategic switch could well be the blueprint needed to maximise Chukwueze's blistering pace, intelligent movement, and burgeoning confidence at the upcoming tournament.

The Chukwueze Conundrum Solved

Chukwueze, typically found on the right flank for both club and country, has truly come alive playing on the left under Fulham manager Marco Silva.

In his last three outings, the 26-year-old has delivered some eye-catching performances from the left side, directly contributing to four goals – a brace and two assists – including a sensational two-goal haul against Manchester City in Fulham's thrilling nine-goal encounter.

Beyond his goal-scoring prowess, Chukwueze's creativity flourishes when he's on the left. This transformation began against Sunderland, where he stole the show after coming off the bench.

In a mere 26 minutes on the left, he carved out five chances, the highest in the match, delivered four key passes, and completed the most dribbles against the resolute Black Cats.

His impressive form continued in a significant derby victory against London rivals Tottenham, where he again led in dribbles, created two chances, and bagged an assist.

In his most recent standout display against City, again as a substitute, he created a chance and a key pass, completed the most dribbles (two), and made another crucial pass, underscoring his impact in open play.

Shifting the left-footed Chukwueze to the left wing allows him to cut inside onto his stronger foot for dangerous curled shots and precise passes, significantly boosting his goal threat and creative output, and enabling him to take on defenders more naturally with his explosive dribbling.

On the left, his dominant left foot is always in play, regardless of how he attacks – whether drifting wide, cutting inside, or driving directly at goal – making him far less predictable and considerably harder to defend against.

That's precisely why he's suddenly appeared 'unplayable' in that position, as evidenced by his recent form at Fulham, where he's notched 2 goals and 2 assists, created the most chances, and completed the most dribbles in each of his last three matches from that flank.

His newfound confidence in this role has seen him become a far more dynamic and unpredictable force.

With AFCON 2025 just 18 days away, Fulham's tactical approach could offer Nigerian coach Chelle, who has already unveiled his provisional squad, and his coaching staff invaluable strategic insight.

Integrating Chukwueze on the left might just be the crucial move to unlock the winger's best form and maximise his impact alongside teammates Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey in the squad.