Fulham boss Silva backs new boy Bassey to improve with time

Calvin Bassey scored his first goal for Fulham in their 2-1 win over TSG Hoffenheim in a friendly game at Craven Cottage on Saturday

Marco Silva believes Super Eagles defender Calvin Bassey will improve with his performance for Fulham after scoring in his second appearance for them on Saturday, Soccernet.ng reports

The 23-year-old recently joined the West London club from Ajax on a four-year contract. He made his debut for them in their 2-0 defeat to Chelsea in a friendly game a week ago, coming on at half-time to replace Luc De Fougerolles.

He was named in manager Marco Silva’s lineup in his second game for the Cottagers and rewarded with an excellent performance that came with his first goal for his new club.

Former Wolves striker striker Raul Gimenez gave the host the lead six minutes into the second half, but their lead only lasted less than six minutes before Grischa Promel equalised for Hoffenheim from a powerful header.

The Super Eagles defender scored the matchwinner for Fulham 13 minutes from time after he jumped highest to head home Andreas Pereira’s corner.

He was named the Man of the Match following a decision made by the fans. Following the end of the game, Silva said he was impressed with the performance he saw from his new signing and has seen enough to believe the 23-year-old will only get better with time.

It will be different for Calvin as it will be his first time in the Premier League. Even though he’s a London boy, it’s new and he will soon understand better how will defend. We knew what type of player we were signing and the skills he has, Silva said on the club’s website 

Fulham and Bassey will now shift their attention toward their first game of the new Premier League season away at Everton next weekend.

The Cottagers ended last season an impressive 10th place and will hope Bassey’s arrival can propel them higher on the table in the new season.