Manchester United legend Van de Sar defends Calvin Bassey amid Ajax criticism

Former Manchester United goalkeeper Edwin Van der Sar has defended Calvin Bassey amid the constant criticisms targeted at the young defender.

Basey, 22, joined the Dutch champions from Scottish giants Glasgow Rangers last summer for a reported fee of €23m to become the most expensive Nigerian defender of all time.

After completing his record move to the Amsterdam-based team, the Italian-born Super Eagle defender has become a pale shadow of himself as his performances have drawn several criticisms from Ajax fans, former players and managers.

The Nigerian international has become the scapegoat for all the wrongs in the Ajax defence since joining the club.

However, Manchester United legend Van der Sar believes the Leicester City academy product needs more time to grow at the club.

He also described the criticism targeted at Bassey as unfair treatment.

“Calvin has qualities, but he will have to improve to get to that level,” Van de Sar said as per Daily Record.

“That is very logical, and Lisandro Martínez has also had that development with us. Just think about two years ago, when Martínez spent a lot of time on the bench. It takes time to grow, it’s not fair to judge Bassey directly on the level of Martínez.”

The versatile defender can be deployed at the certre back role, as well as in the left-back position.