From a shaky start in his first year to being named Fulham’s Player of the Season, Calvin Bassey has flipped his fortunes with consistency, authority, and growing influence at Fulham, Footynaija.com reports.
After arriving from Ajax in 2023, Bassey initially struggled to settle at Craven Cottage. His early months were marked by awkward performances, and questions sabout his suitability for the league. But that narrative changed in his second campaign.
In the 2024-2025 season, the 25-year-old missed just three league games all season, anchoring Fulham’s defence and standing out as one of the club’s most improved players.
His ball-playing numbers were among the best for defenders in the English Premier League. This rise was built on graft, accountability, and what he now calls the “biggest thing” that made the difference.
“I came in and I had a job to do. The biggest thing for me was having the manager’s trust,” Bassey said, in an interview wth Sky Sports.
The trust from Marco Silva was mutual. The Portuguese boss adjusted the role of the Nigeria international to better suit his left-footed strengths, positioning him on the left side of defence. That decision helped unlock a new level of calmness in Fulham’s backline.
Bassey, now with over 31 caps for the Super Eagles, credited his upturn to more than just tactics.
“I did extras, analysing my games. I’ve done extra gym sessions to get stronger and faster. It’s about investing in yourself,” he said.
“You can’t just rely on what we call our 9-to-5 at the club. It’s just not a career; it’s a lifestyle.”
The transformation did not go unnoticed. He beat out teammate Alex Iwobi to land Fulham’s season award, earning nearly 40 percent of fan votes. With the Europa League just out of reach, Bassey is already aiming higher for 2025–26.
“We know the quality we have… it’s a clear target for us next season,” he said.