“You can’t really put into words” – 28-capped Super Eagles star opens up on what it means to represent Nigeria

Super Eagles defender Calvin Bassey revealed what representing Nigeria men’s national team means to him in a recent interview with NBC Sports, Footynaija.com reports.

Bassey was born to Nigerian parents in Italy before moving to England, where he grew up. As a result, he was eligible to represent Italy, England and Nigeria on the international scene.

The Newham-bred defender eventually chose to represent the African giants and he has gone on to establish himself as a vital part of the Super Eagles’ defensive setup, earning 28 caps since making his debut in 2022.

Speaking to NBC Sports journalist Mary Omatiga on the By Way of Africa Series, Bassey opened up on how “massive” representing the Super Eagles of Nigeria is for him and his family.

“It’s massive. When I was younger, my mom didn’t really watch football unless it was the World Cup,” Bassey began.

“That’s the only thing she was engaged in because Nigeria was involved. So seeing that, I just know when I’m on that pitch playing for Nigeria, she’s supporting like crazy.

“I remember when she came to the African Cup of Nations, obviously, I couldn’t see her, but my friend was there along with my mom and my agent, and they sent me videos.

“My mom’s passion is just crazy. She’s just screaming! She thinks I can hear her, and I’m like “I can’t hear it Mom, there’s like 60,000 people in the stadium!”

“But it’s nice, and that just fuels me to want to do more. I know all my family in Nigeria is watching as well. It’s a different type of feeling — you can’t really put into words.”

Calvin Bassey’s two years at Fulham

At club level, Bassey is enjoying life in West London with Fulham. The 25-year-old defender has been a crucial player for the Cottagers since joining from Ajax Amsterdam in the summer of 2023.

This season, he has featured regularly for Marco Silva’s side in the Premier League. Bassey has started in 25 of his 26 appearances for the London side, contributing immensely to a relatively solid back line.