Calvin Bassey: Super Eagles Defender Earns Plaudit Following Impressive Display Against Arsenal

• Arsenal’s Premier League woes continued during their clash against Fulham
• A Super Eagles star ensured Mikel Arteta’s side ended 2023 with a sour taste
• Fans have hailed the defender for their stellar showing in the match

Arsenal were looking to salvage their recent slump in form when they travelled to city rival Fulham for their final fixture of the 2023 calendar year.

The Gunners who were winless since their triumph against Brighton on December 17, were hoping to make light work of Marco Silva’s side, and they wasted little time stating their intent, with forward Bukayo Saka finding the back of the net in the fifth minute of the encounter.

However, their early resurgence was quickly pegged back with a sublime finish from forward Raul Jimenez.

The North London club appeared to have the wind back in their sails until midfielder Bobby Reid reminded them of their defensive frailties with a beautiful finish following a corner kick on the hour mark.

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Nonetheless, while a host of stars got on the scoresheet, it was the stellar showing of Super Eagles of Nigeria defender Calvin Bassey that sparked a flurry of plaudits among fans.

According to data from Sqauwka, the 24-year-old achieved a perfect 100% take-ons, maintained a 93% pass accuracy, accumulated 76 touches, executed 60 passes, entered the final third five times, secured possession five times, made five crucial clearances, won five duels, completed three tackles, and recorded two pivotal interceptions during the match.

This well-rounded display from the former Ajax star prompted an outpouring of admiration, with fans expressing their commendation on social media.

Fans hail Calvin Bassey

@CFC_MC, who observed an evident improvement in Bassey's confidence:

"He has really grown in confidence, unlike the start of the season."

@MariaOsas, expressing hope for the upcoming AFCON:

"I can see all our players performing exceptionally well in their different clubs. I hope they can bring such form to the national team. That hunger and fire to go far should be shown in full display at the AFCON."

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@sammiepops98, praising Bassey as a player to watch in the AFCON:

"Calvin Bassey, now I say you are a man to watch in the Afcon. Fantastic defender for any team👏👏"

@Yuggiio humorously references Bassey's performance against Saka:

"Man took Saka to Akwa Ibom with Air Peace."

Bassey's consistent performances have seen him solidify his position as a key player for Marco Silva's newly-formed Fulham side this season.

However, Nigerians eagerly anticipate Bassey replicating this form when donning the national jersey at the upcoming AFCON in Ivory Coast.

Calvin Bassey hails Magiure

Sports Brief in a previous report stated that Super Eagles star Calvin Bassey has showered praises on Manchester United defender Harry Maguire after recently coming up against him in the English Premier League.

The Nigerian international was in the same team as the England international a few years ago, but they now represent different club sides.

The former Ajax defender and the Red Devils star were once on the books of Leicester City, with the Super Eagles player coming through the ranks of the Foxes.