Calvin Bassey has emerged as one of Fulham's most consistent performers this Premier League season, earning recognition from both his manager and prominent pundits.

The 25-year-old Nigerian international has featured in 29 of Fulham's 32 league matches, demonstrating remarkable reliability in defense. His commanding performance against Liverpool, particularly in neutralizing Mohamed Salah during their 3-2 victory, has drawn specific praise from Marco Silva and Jamie Carragher alike. The versatile defender's composed displays have established him as a key component of Fulham's backline throughout the current campaign.

Carragher on Bassey:

“Last week, Calvin Bassey was fantastic. He plays in my position, and I was so impressed with him.” 

Marco Silva added his voice to the growing praise for the Nigerian defender, commending Bassey's resilience in overcoming his challenging period at Ajax. The Fulham manager specifically highlighted how the former Rangers player has reinvented himself at Craven Cottage.

He said, “I know him very well, I’ve said it several times since he joined us after a really difficult spell in Ajax and his time at Rangers. We really believe in him. I really believe that he’s capable of playing at a very high level. He ticks all the boxes of what a modern footballer and modern defender must be.” 

Bassey kept Mo Salah quiet throughout last weekend's league tie, ensuring that the Egyptian registered a grand total of zero shots on target. 

Fulham's impressive season sees them sitting ninth in the Premier League, just six points behind sixth-placed Chelsea. With Nigerian defender Calvin Bassey establishing himself as a defensive mainstay, the Cottagers are mounting their first serious European qualification challenge in 15 years.