Calvin Bassey’s recent absence from Fulham’s starting XI has raised a lot of concerns among fans and Nigerians.

After returning from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with Nigeria, the Super Eagles defender was expected to return directly to the starting line-up, Footballrover reports.

Calvin Bassey’s status before and after AFCON

Instead, head coach Marco Silva has kept faith with Jorge Cuenca, a decision that has quickly become a major topic of discussion around the club.

Before AFCON 2025, Bassey was one of Fulham’s most dependable players. Over the past two seasons, he had grown into a defensive leader and was even voted the club’s Player of the Season last year.

In the early months of the current campaign, Bassey formed a strong centre-back partnership with Joachim Andersen, helping Fulham remain competitive in the Premier League.

When Bassey left to represent the Super Eagles at AFCON in Morocco, concerns grew about how the club would cope without him.

However, Those fears did not materialise. The Cottagers went on an impressive run of form, with Jorge Cuenca stepping in calmly and effectively alongside Andersen.

Since Bassey’s return in late January, he has yet to start a league match. He stayed on the bench throughout Fulham’s game against Brighton and was limited to just five minutes against Manchester United.

And when questioned about the situation of the Nigerian international, Silva was clear that form, not reputation, is guiding his decision.

Why Marco Silva chose to bench Bassey

The Cottagers boss openly praised Bassey’s quality and impact at the club but stressed that Cuenca has earned his place through consistent display.

Silva explained that healthy competition within the squad is vital and that Cuenca understands the level of player he is competing against.

“I am the first one praising Calvin’s impact at the club, a great, great CB. Huge potential to keep growing. Cuenca has stepped in & shown his qualities. It’s a competition; Cuenca knows the pro he’s up against,” Silva said, as quoted by Jack Kelly.

Jorge Cuenca

With Fulham set to face Everton at Craven Cottage, it remains unclear whether Silva will stick with Cuenca or bring Bassey back into the starting line-up.

What is certain is that Bassey’s quality and experience still make him a key figure at the club.

As the season progresses, the Super Eagles defender is widely expected to reclaim a regular role.

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Last Updated on February 7, 2026 7:43 am by footballrover