Nigeria midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru says his focus is firmly on helping S.S. Lazio win the Coppa Italia this season after a difficult campaign disrupted by injuries and international duty, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

The 25-year-old has struggled for consistency during his first full season with the Serie A side, but recently enjoyed a positive moment when he scored his first goal of the campaign in Lazio’s 2-2 draw against Atalanta BC in the Coppa Italia.

Speaking to Lazio Press, the midfielder stressed that Lazio’s main target is lifting the Coppa Italia, which would secure qualification for next season’s UEFA Europa League and provide a positive finish to what he described as a challenging year.

“Our goal for the current season is to try to win the Coppa Italia. It would be important for the team and the fans; it would help us finish a difficult year on a high note, also securing qualification for next season’s Europa League.”

On a personal level, Dele-Bashiru said he is determined to make the most of every opportunity in the remaining fixtures as he looks to establish himself more firmly in Sarri’s squad.

“I just hope to play as many games as possible between now and the end, taking advantage of every opportunity I get. I want to grow every day and make the most of my time here at Lazio, helping the club,” he said.

The former Hatayspor midfielder admitted that the season has been far from straightforward, revealing that injuries and his participation with Nigeria at the Africa Cup of Nations affected his rhythm and opportunities in the team.

Despite the setbacks, he believes the experience has helped him grow as a player and says he is determined to use the remainder of the season to prove his value to the club.

“This year, despite the difficulties, has taught me a lot. I’m working only to have the opportunity to prove my worth,” he said.

Dele-Bashiru described his goal against Atalanta as a turning point after months of frustration, and hopes it can provide momentum for the closing stages of the campaign.

“I was very happy with the goal. Unfortunately, I’ve had a difficult season so far: first, I had several injuries, then I left for the Africa Cup of Nations. I’ve never found consistency, so I hope the performance and the goal against Atalanta can become a starting point for the end of this season.”

Dele-Bashiru praised head coach Maurizio Sarri for supporting him through a challenging period and helping him continue his development.

“He’s helping me a lot; there are always different areas a player can improve,” Dele-Bashiru said. “I know the coach and his staff expect a lot from me. They know my qualities and try to bring them out in every training session, both technically and tactically.”