Calvin Bassey Calls Fulham Captaincy a Great Honor

Super Eagles defender Calvin Bassey has called his new role as Fulham captain a "privilege." He feels that taking charge of the Premier League team comes naturally to him.

Bassey has worn the captain’s armband in Fulham’s first three Premier League matches this season. New manager Álvaro Arbeloa picked Bassey for this role because he sees him as a strong leader in the team.

For Bassey, being captain does not change who he is or how he plays. He believes his experience and position on the field help him lead effectively.

Speaking to Fulham’s media team, Bassey said, "It’s a privilege. Being able to captain this club is unbelievable."

"Going into my fourth season, I know the boys and get on with everyone, so I just be myself and try to help everyone. Leading comes naturally because of the position I play, being able to see everything and having to communicate as a centre-half."

Bassey added, "I’ve been around these boys for so long and been fortunate enough to have played so many games, so it didn’t really change anything. Of course, it’s a huge privilege, and thank you to the manager for giving it to me, but I don’t think it’s changed me."

Even with the extra pressure of being captain, Bassey says fans should not expect him to act differently when things are tough for Fulham. He sees himself as a calm player who focuses on keeping a good vibe instead of shouting at teammates.

"Nah, not really, that’s not me! I’m more chill. Before the game, I’m just happy, smiling as always. I want everyone to go in with good energy."

"Of course, you can get frustrated, but I think everyone understands that, so it’s not my personality to start screaming at people."

Bassey also thinks it is not helpful to confront upset teammates right after a disappointing match. He knows everyone puts in their best but sometimes they just cannot win.

"I know everyone goes out there and gives 100 per cent, and sometimes we’re just not able to win. I know they’re frustrated, I’m frustrated, but I think sometimes it’s best to leave people be and then speak about it later."

As captain, Bassey also helps Fulham’s younger players. He has been keeping an eye on 19-year-old Josh King, who seems to be getting extra attention from the Nigerian.

Bassey shared that King’s mother has told him to look after the young player. "His mum’s told me to look after him, so I know I can stick it on him if he gets too big for his boots! I always looked after him anyway, but I got the green light, so it’s even better now."

Despite the joking, Bassey respects King’s hard work and progress. King has already scored twice for Fulham this season, and Bassey thinks his dedication in training has helped him succeed early.

"I’m so happy for him. He works hard, he’s always on the pitch after training practising finishing, and he has good application in the gym."

"I just want him to keep working hard and keep helping us, because he’s a player we need and a player who’s bringing excitement to both our fans and the whole Premier League this season."

Even with King's goals, Fulham is still looking for their first points of the season. Bassey believes there are good signs in their play and is confident the team will improve under Arbeloa.

"I’m excited. You can see from the way we’ve played that there are many positives. The manager is very calm; I think his experience as a player means he understands how hard it can be at times, so he’s able to lead us calmly."

"It’s a journey. We’ve only been with him for two months or so, so it’s very new, and he even understands that it’s different to what we’re used to, so it’s going to take time to adjust."

Bassey’s leadership will be put to the test again this weekend when Fulham visits Anfield to play Liverpool. The Nigerian knows what to expect against such a strong team but believes good preparation can help them.

"It’s not going to be easy. You know what’s coming when you play Liverpool; they have top players. It’s just about doing our homework and seeing how we can hurt them."

"We talk with the manager about everything that might not have worked, and try to go into every game understanding more what he wants from us individually as players. He’ll set us up in the right way to tackle Liverpool."

For Bassey, being captain may be new, but he plans to stay calm, lead by example, and support his teammates. As the Super Eagles defender prepares to lead Fulham at Anfield, he has another chance to show why Arbeloa trusts him with the armband.