“It’s changed to David Alaba” – Award-winning Super Eagles star reveals role-model shift from Messi, Ronaldo to Real Madrid defender

The three superstars are among the best players in the world in their positions, and a Nigerian international has viewed them as his idols at different times of his career

Rangers defender Calvin Bassey has revealed how shifts in his position have changed his role models from Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi to Real Madrid ace David Alaba.

Bassey revealed that he started in a more advanced role as a kid and, at the time, looked to base his game on the legendary attacking duo of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.

The Super Eagles star has, however, seen a gradual shift towards a more defensive role, excelling at centre-back, left-back, and wing-back for Rangers.

And the 22-year-old has confessed that such development has made him look towards former Bayern Munich defender David Alaba as an inspiration.

“It changed over the years as my position changed,” Bassey said [YouTube].

“I started off as a winger so probably Ronaldo and Messi, but now it's changed a bit to David Alaba.

“He plays a similar position to me, left-back and centre-half, and he’s a top-quality player.”

Bassey also opened up on his future ambitions, as he made it clear that his dream is to win as many trophies as possible at the club and international level.

The Nigerian international states it would be a dream to test himself against some of the best in the world while at it.

“My dream, obviously, is to win trophies.

“I want to be part of a winning team and test myself against some of the best players in the world domestically and at the international level.”

Calvin Bassey has won a Premiership winner's medal and a Scottish Cup winner's medal during his two-year stay at Rangers.

Winning more trophies may, however, continue at a different club as there are several suitors reportedly keen on signing him.