Calvin Bassey is expected to return to action for Fulham FC on April 11 after missing Nigeria’s March international friendlies due to a back injury, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
The defender had initially been named in the Super Eagles squad for games against Iran and Jordan but was forced to withdraw shortly before the fixtures, raising concerns given his importance to the team. His absence came as a surprise after he completed 90 minutes in Fulham’s 3–1 Premier League win over Burnley FC before the international break.
Subsequent medical assessments have confirmed that the injury is not serious, with Bassey expected to resume full training in early April and return to competitive action soon after.
During his absence, head coach Éric Chelle handed a late call-up to Chibuike Nwaiwu to provide defensive cover, offering the youngster an opportunity to impress at the international level.
Bassey’s return comes at a crucial stage of the campaign for Fulham, who are entering the decisive run-in of the season. He is expected to be available for the club’s upcoming Premier League clash against Liverpool FC at Anfield.
The 26-year-old has been a key figure in Fulham’s defence this season, featuring consistently in league matches, with his only notable absence prior to this injury coming during the Africa Cup of Nations.