Fulham manager Marco Silva has confirmed that Nigerian winger Samuel Chukwueze will miss Sunday’s trip to Sunderland at the Stadium of Light due to injury.

The Super Eagles forward picked up a minor calf problem during Fulham’s 3–0 defeat to Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium and was subsequently absent from the side’s FA Cup win over Stoke City.

Chukwueze was one of several first-team players rested by the Portuguese coach for the tie against the Championship side, with Alex Iwobi the only regular starter to feature.

Speaking during his press conference, Silva explained that the issue was not serious and he had even taken part in some drills earlier on Friday morning.

"The only player who is going to be out of the game is Chukwueze. After City he felt something in his calf, nothing serious but even today in the morning he was involved in some drills," Silva said. 

He added that Chukwueze would likely be fully fit to resume training with the team in the early part of next week and should be available for the following match.

"Probably in the first section of next week, he is going to be completely ready to work with the team and he is going to be back for the next game."

His absence will be a notable setback for the Cottagers, who may turn to fellow summer signing Kevin Santos to fill in for the Super Eagles winger.

Chukwueze, who joined Fulham on loan from AC Milan, has rediscovered his form in the Premier League after a challenging spell in Serie A.

The 26-year-old has registered three goals and four assists in 13 league appearances, playing an important role as Fulham continue their push for a European place this season.

Adeyemi Adewale