Ajax boss Heitinga backs Bassey amid backlash

Ajax coach John Heitinga insists the team needs Nigerian defender Calvin Bassey despite offering him little playing time after taking over from former coach Alfred Schreuder.

The 23-year-old who was a regular starter under the former boss has started just one of Ajax's last six games under Heitinga.

Bassey has been made a scapegoat for Ajax's woes this season with many fans and club legends criticizing him for his performance in defence.

Despite the backlash which has forced the Super Eagles defender to fall on the pecking order, his new boss insists he remains an integral member of the team.

“Calvin is a top professional. He comes from Glasgow and knows a different way of playing,” Heitinga told ESPN per football Scotland.

“In Holland, a lot is demanded of the ball and you play with a lot of space behind you.

“He can defend. We have to help him and make sure he has plenty of opportunities, but we know how long the rest of the season is. We are going to need him.”

Bassey joined the Eredivisie champions last summer from Glasgow Rangers for a reported fee of €23m to become the club's third most expensive signing.

WDN