Premier League all-time highest goalscorer Alan Shearer has praised Super Eagles defender Calvin Bassey for his goal against Manchester United in the round of 16 of the FA Cup, Soccernet.ng reports.
Bassey was one of the top performers when Manchester United welcomed Fulham to Old Trafford on Sunday. The Red Devils have struggled this season, and they were there for the taking against a Fulham side that has been impressive this season.
After 45 minutes of action, Bassey took the initiative in stoppage time of the first half as he scored the opener off an assist from Rodrigo Muniz.
Bruno Fernandes later equalized for Manchester United, but Fulham eventually won the game via a penalty shoot-out.
After the game, Shearer was highly critical of Manchester United's defense in the lead-up to Fulham's goal. But he credited Bassey for his quick reaction.
“They (Manchester United) lose two headers with what would say was a pretty simple ball to deal with,” Shearer said, per Mirror.
“Having said that, the movement of the Fulham players in and around the 18 yard box was excellent. You see they're [Man Utd] slow to react… You have to be bright, you have to be quicker to react.
“Man Utd players aren't but Fulham are, Bassey in particular. He guides it into the corner. I've just said how poor Man Utd have been defending corners, that sums them up.”
Calvin Bassey continues to shine
Calvin Bassey has become a crucial member of Fulham's squad. He has played in 26 of their 27 Premier League games this season. The Super Eagles star also has one goal in the English top-flight.
Bassey will be looking to end the campaign with Fulham on a high. And if he continues to improve, he might even get a transfer to a bigger club in a few years.
