Calvin Bassey’s Call for Nigerian Heritage in Football Representation

Fulham defender Calvin Bassey has urged young footballers of Nigerian descent, such as Ethan Nwaneri, to consider playing for Nigeria’s national team over England. He emphasized the importance of national heritage and expressed pride in representing Nigeria, contributing to the team’s successes. With the Super Eagles seeking to attract more talents, Bassey’s message resonates strongly with those navigating dual-nationality choices.

Calvin Bassey, a defender for Fulham, has called on young footballers of Nigerian descent, including Arsenal’s promising talent Ethan Nwaneri, to consider representing Nigeria’s national team instead of England. Bassey, who was born in Italy to Nigerian parents and raised in England, shared how his heritage influenced his choice to play for Nigeria in 2022. He expressed a heartfelt connection to his Nigerian roots, stating, “I feel like because most of us were first-generation, we really feel connected to our Nigerian roots.”

Despite recent challenges, the Super Eagles have sought to persuade promising talents born in England to commit to their national team. Notably, players such as Bukayo Saka and Tammy Abraham have opted for England. Conversely, Nwaneri is in a unique position, being eligible for both nations, as reports indicate England may extend a senior international call-up to him in March. Bassey, however, has reaped the rewards of his commitment to Nigeria, contributing significantly to the team’s success in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations and securing qualification for Morocco.

He is joined by a growing number of players, including Ola Aina and Alex Iwobi, who have pledged their allegiance to Nigeria. Ademola Lookman’s switch from England to Nigeria in 2022 stands out, particularly as he earned the title of CAF African Footballer of the Year. Bassey reflected on the significance of representing Nigeria, stating, “When I was younger, my mom didn’t really watch football unless it was the World Cup because Nigeria was involved.” As the team’s head coach Eric Chelle prepares to announce his squad for upcoming World Cup qualifiers, Bassey is anticipated to be prominently featured.

Calvin Bassey is actively encouraging young footballers with Nigerian heritage to represent Nigeria rather than England. His own choice to play for Nigeria has brought him personal fulfillment and success, highlighting his connection to his roots. As the Super Eagles aim to attract more talent, Bassey exemplifies how embracing one’s heritage can lead to significant contributions on the international stage.

Original Source: punchng.com