Calvin Bassey is coming into his own at Fulham

When Calvin Bassey signed for Fulham in July 2023, fans were divided about the signing, with the Nigerian centre-half struggling for the year he was with Ajax. However, since then, Calvin has proved to be a fan favourite with many admirable performances alongside Joachim Andersen. Bassey seems to come into his own against top sides or the traditional big six, and it’s time we praise him for it.

Notable games

Bassey scooped up the man of the match award for his imperious display against league leaders Liverpool. Calvin made the most recoveries and interceptions in the match (eight and five respectively) and had 38/42 successful passes with five clearances, as, alongside Andersen, he was able to keep the Liverpool strike force quiet for much of the affair.

In the attacking department, Bassey has also scored goals in big moments, opening the scoring as we defeated Manchester United at Old Trafford in the FA Cup, as well as bagging the winning goal when we defeated Nottingham Forest at home, ensuring we did the double over Nuno’s side.

Further to this, when we defeated Chelsea away, Bassey was the highest-rated centre-back as per Fulhamish ratings. This match allowed the Nigerian to take up a different role with two other centre-halves, therefore showing an exuberant, enthusiastic attacking side to his game. Fresh in the minds of many in addition to this, is the game against Tottenham Hotspur, with highlights of note including Bassey easily showing his strength and shoulder barging the supposed ‘hard man’ Christian Romero off the ball.

Unique strengths

There are many reasons to praise Calvin Bassey this season, and it’s notable that within every memorable game that we have played, Calvin’s had a say on the outcome. As a centre-back, we should also relish the attributes that Calvin possesses. The sheer strength that he has often shows off a level of old school defending, easily using his body to win the ball back in a manner that is not often seen from centre halves nowadays. Further to this, Calvin shows an eagerness and desire going forward, carrying the ball in a composed, yet fast manner, propelling us forward for many successful attacks.

I believe many opposition fans will look at the centre-backs within our ranks and come to the judgment that Joachim Andersen is better than his counterpart. However, I believe that many Fulham fans appreciate the strengths that Calvin Bassey has, and he is underrated by the rest of the Premier League for the work that he does for our side. Although he has not been perfect, Calvin has been useful in big moments for this side, and it is time we show him that appreciation he deserves.