Calvin Bassey, a defender for the Super Eagles, is anticipated to return to duty on April 11 after missing Nigeria’s March friendly due to a minor back ailment.
According to Naija News, the Fulham defender was part of coach Eric Chelle’s 23-man roster but withdrew last week, allowing Chibuike Nwaiwu of Trabzonspor to be called up later.
The 26-year-old played the entire game in Fulham’s 3-1 victory against Burnley shortly before the international break, raising questions about the choice. Instead of a significant setback, the anticipated return date suggests a precaution.
Following their FA Cup elimination, Fulham has no league games right after the break, so a high-profile trip to Liverpool at Anfield is set to be their comeback.
For Fulham’s aspirations in Europe, time is crucial. With seven games remaining, the West London team is currently in ninth place in the Premier League, five points behind fifth.
Bassey continues to be essential to their campaign. With the exception of the games that conflicted with the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), he has participated in 23 of the team’s 31 league games this season. Additionally, the Nigerian won Fulham’s Player of the Year award the previous season, and he has continued to do so this season.
The national team defeated Iran 2-1 while he was away from the Super Eagles during the current international break, and they will play Jordan on Tuesday, March 31 at 6:30 p.m.
