Former Nigeria international Juwon Oshaniwa has expressed sympathy for Calvin Bassey following the Super Eagles defender’s difficult return to club football with Fulham after the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Bassey was one of Nigeria’s standout performers during their AFCON campaign but has struggled for game time since rejoining his Premier League side. The centre-back is yet to start a match since returning from international duty and was an unused substitute in Fulham’s recent league clash against Everton.
Speaking to Brila.net, Oshaniwa described the situation as frustrating, particularly given Bassey’s importance to both Nigeria and Fulham before the tournament. However, he urged the defender to remain patient, focused, and committed as he waits for another opportunity.
“It is a very bad one. You’re talking about someone that just finished a very big tournament like AFCON, the biggest tournament on the African continent, where he had a brilliant outing,” Oshaniwa said.
“Coming back to sit on the bench is not a good situation at all.
“He was a regular before leaving for the tournament, so finding himself in this position shouldn’t be like that. But he should keep his head up and continue working hard, even in training, while he waits for his chance.”
Since returning from AFCON, Bassey has managed just four minutes of Premier League action, coming on briefly against Manchester United. He was benched against Brighton and did not feature at all against Everton.
The lack of involvement represents a sharp contrast to his pre-AFCON status. Before departing for the continental showpiece, the 26-year-old had featured in 15 matches and started every Premier League game for Fulham, establishing himself as a key figure in the club’s defensive setup.
For Oshaniwa, the challenge now is mental as much as tactical, with patience and persistence crucial as Bassey looks to reclaim his place at Craven Cottage.
