Fulham manager Marco Silva has given reasons why Nigeria defender Calvin Bassey has not started a match since returning from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
The highly-rated defender has struggled to re3gain his position in the team since returning from the continental showpiece, where the Super Eagles finished third.
Bassey, who was named Fulham’s Player of the Year last season, has been a key figure at the club over the past two campaigns.
During his spell with the national team, Marco Silva reshuffled his defense, which has since paid off for the team. The gaffer now prefers Joachim Andersen and Jorge Cuenca pairing at the back, limiting Bassey’s playing chances.
Despite acknowledging Bassey’s quality, Marco Silva appears to have entrusted the new centre-back pairing.
“It’s a great thing for the team. I am the first one praising Calvin’s impact at the club, a great, great CB. Huge potential to keep growing,” Silva said. “Cuenca has stepped in and shown his qualities. It’s a competition; Cuenca knows the pro he’s up against.”
The 26-year-old defender has made 17 appearances in the English Premier League for Fulham this season, scoring one goal across the period.
