“It’S Unbelievable” — Calvin Bassey Reacts To Being Fulham’S Captain

Super Eagles defender Calvin Bassey has opened up on how he feels about being Fulham’s captain this season.

 

According to a quote published on Fulham’s official website, captaining the team is “unbelievable” and “a huge privilege.” Bassey has worn the armband in each of the Cottagers’ opening three Premier League matches this season, stepping in for Tom Cairney, who has been sidelined through injury.

 

Though he is grateful to manager Alvaro Arbeloa for giving him such a significant role in the team, Bassey admitted the captain’s armband has not changed his attitude, performance, or commitment during and after matches.

 

“I have to thank the manager for giving it to me, but I don’t think it has changed me,” he disclosed.

 

The 26-year-old centre-back further disclosed his readiness to lead the Cottagers to an improved level, explaining that leading comes naturally to him. He also noted that playing centre-back makes it easier for him to spot his teammates’ mistakes and organise the team during games.

 

 

“Leading comes naturally to me because of the position I play – I can see everything and I have to communicate as a centre-half,” he explained.

 

 

Poor Start To The Season

 

 

Bassey and his teammates have endured a disappointing start to the season, having lost all three of their opening Premier League matches.

 

 

Fulham lost 3-2 to Chelsea at Craven Cottage on matchday one, before falling 1-0 away to Sunderland and then 3-2 at home to Crystal Palace, with Ben Chilwell netting a late winner for the visitors on his return to the club.

 

 

Reacting to their unimpressive start, the Super Eagles defender urged his teammates to keep working hard until results start going their way. He also called on the fans to be patient with the new manager, who needs more time to understand the players’ capabilities and adapt them to Fulham’s playing style.

 

“It’s a journey. We’ve only been with him for two months or so, so it’s very new, and he even understands that it’s different to what we’re used to, so it’s going to take time to adjust,” he admitted.

 

Though Calvin Bassey believes a trip to Anfield will be difficult, he hopes to end the poor run of results when Fulham take on Liverpool on Saturday.

 

“It’s not going to be easy. You know what’s coming when you play Liverpool; they have top players,” he said, adding that Fulham will focus on their homework and look for ways to hurt Liverpool on the day.

 

For Calvin Bassey, wearing the Fulham armband is both an honour and a responsibility he is determined to carry with humility.

 

While the club’s winless start under Alvaro Arbeloa has tested patience at Craven Cottage, the Nigerian international’s calm leadership and communication on the pitch could prove vital as the Cottagers look to turn results around.