Fulham boss Marco Silva has explained why Calvin Bassey has not been getting playing time since his return from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
Bassey has been a key performer Fulham for the past two campaigns and was even named the club’s best player last season.
In the first part of this season Bassey was impressive following his solid partnership with Joachim Andersen at center-back.
However, he had to link up with Nigeria’s Super Eagles for the AFCON where he was outstanding.
While there were fears his absence would be deeply felt, that was not the case, as the Cottagers went on a good run of form.
Jorge Cuenca, who replaced him, performed really well and has gone on to develop a strong understanding with Andersen.
Despite Cuenca’s superb form, it was believed Bassey would reclaim his starting role once he returned from international duties.
Surprisingly, it was not the case as Bassey has not started a single game for the London club.
In the first match for which he was available — against Brighton — he remained on the bench for the full 90 minutes.
Then, against Manchester United last weekend, Bassey saw just five minutes of action.
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Bassey’s continued bench role has raised questions and he was quizzed about the move during recent press conference.
While acknowledging Bassey’s quality, Silva noted that he has continued to start Cuenca due to the Spaniard’s impressive displays.
He also posited that maintaining this lineup is important to foster healthy competition among his players.
“It’s a great thing for the team. I am the first one praising Calvin’s impact at the club, a great, great centre back. Huge potential to keep growing,” Silva said (via freelance reporter with Fulham Jack Kelly).
“Cuenca has stepped in and shown his qualities. It’s a competition, Cuenca knows the pro he’s up against.”
Meanwhile, Fulham’s next game is against Everton at Craven Cottage on Sunday, and it is unknown if Silva will stick with Cuenca or reinstate Bassey into the back four.
2 Comments
Yea that’s fair enough, don’t change ur winning formulae but what’s it with subbing chuckueze one of ur best performing player on the pitch always? Kevin might be the club highest signing in history but he can’t lace chukzy shoe so instead of subbing chukzy ur main attacking threat, why not find a way to make both of them work together? Immediately chukzy left the pitch today, Everton started pressing and gain that momentum that was lacking in their game prior to that moment and end up with 2 goals to go back to Goodison park with 3 valuable points.
This is part of the risk players take when they accept national assignment.
Injury risk, loss of position in starting eleven at their clubs. These are huge risks.
Since his return from the Afcon, Bassey has temporarily lost his starting jersey. The least NFF can do to support players is to unfailing PAY THEIR MATCH BONUSES.