Super Eagles defender Calvin Bassey has been ruled out of Nigeria’s game against Mali on Tuesday and will have to return to England for further tests because of an injury.

The Fulham defender Bassey is among the 23 players who resumed camp for Nigeria’s international break games against Ghana and Mali but he sat out the 2-1 win over Ghana and he is reportedly on his way to England for assessment on an injury.

Bassey has been a stalwart for the Super Eagles since his transfer to Fulham last season. The Nigerian has been a regular for the team since he made his debut in March 2022 under coach Gernot Rohr.

He was also a standout performer for the Super Eagles at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, helping Nigeria to a second-place finish in Ivory Coast.

He would have been in contention for a starting shirt in the game against Mali on Tuesday, but he would have to wait for some time before he gets another cap, as according to Fulham Fan News, Bassey will return to Fulham to undergo further tests and treatment because of an injury.

The extent of Bassey’s injury is unknown, but it would be a big blow for Fulham if it is a long-term injury. The club is currently 12th in the Premier League with nine games left, and they would be looking to finish well and probably nick a spot in Europe.

He has scored one goal in 20 league appearances this season with his only goal coming against Manchester United on February 24. His compatriot, Alex Iwobi also scored in that game as the Cottagers won 2-1 at Old
Trafford.