Super Eagles’ defender, Calvin Bassey, has been sidelined from Nigeria’s match against Mali due to an injury and is set to return to England for additional examinations.
Since moving to Fulham last season, Bassey has become a crucial figure for the Super Eagles, consistently appearing in the lineup since his first game in March 2022 under coach Gernot Rohr.
His impressive performance at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations was instrumental in Nigeria securing a runner-up position in Cote d’Ivoire.
Bassey was one of the 26 players summoned for Nigeria’s international fixtures against Ghana and Mali. Despite not playing in the victory over Ghana, the 24-year-old defender was a potential candidate to start in Tuesday’s match against Mali.
However, his next appearance for the national team will be postponed as Fulham Fan News reports he is due to return to Fulham for further medical evaluation and treatment for his injury.
The severity of Bassey’s injury remains unclear, yet it could significantly impact Fulham, which is currently ranked 12th in the Premier League with nine matches remaining. The team aims to end the season strongly, possibly securing a European competition slot.
In the meantime, coach Finidi George is optimistic about Bassey’s swift recovery in time for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against South Africa.
