Calvin Bassey’s performance against Union Berlin pulls new admirers

After moving to the Netherlands from Scotland, the Super Eagles star has performed below expectations for the Dutch team, earning harsh criticism from the majority of soccer analysts.

Super Eagles defender, Calvin Bassey, has earlier been at the centre of criticism following his subpar performance in the early stages of the season campaign.

The Nigerian international switched to Ajax Amsterdam in the summer from Glasgow Rangers FC for an estimated £25 million.

The former Dutch international Rafael van der Vaart, who critiques his performance for the current Eredivisie champion, has not been pleased with his words to him since his big-money transfer.

The Nigerian full-back, meanwhile, has risen above all sorts of criticism with a drive to perform to the standards expected of him at the club as well as give his all for his team.

This, he has proven by dishing out an assist that led to Jurrien Timber’s goal in their 3-1 comeback victory against RKC Waalwijk at Amsterdam Arena.

Despite having many excellent strikers in the squad, John Heitinga’s side was unable to score in their match against the Berliners, but Bassey’s talent was evident throughout the encounter.

His performance earned him a 6.5 player rating, as well as Ghana’s Mohammed Kudus. Only Ajax’s goalkeeper, Gerónimo Rulli was given a higher player rating of 7.5.

Following this, soccer experts and pundits Marciano Vink saluted Bassey’s and Rulli’s performance on the pitch.

“If Bassey and Rulli are the best men on the pitch, that says it all,” he said, as quoted by Scottishsun.

Another person who was amazed by the Nigerian’s efforts was former Celtic attacker, Van Hoojdonk.

“Bassey stopped an awful lot.

“The rest were very disappointing. Everyone had an off day. They are individualists. Based on the budget, it should have been a breeze.” he remarked.

Bassey’s teammate, Jurrien Timber, praised Bassey for his effort throughout the game, stating that “Calvin is someone who never gives up and is always ready for battle. That suits him well.”

The Super Eagles star was shifted from his customary position to the front of the goalie as a centre defender for the match against the German team.

But, he will be eager to carry on his remarkable streak when his team hosts Sparta Rotterdam at the Amsterdam Arena on February 19 on Sunday.