2023 AFCON Qualifier : Paseiro Reveals Reason He Plays Bassey As Centre Back

2023 AFCON Qualifier : Paseiro Reveals Reason He Plays Bassey As Centre Back

Sampson Adedeji

Super Eagles coach Jose Paseiro has revealed the reason he played Rangers FC defender Calvin Bassey at the centre-back position despite having natural central defenders in the team, BSNsports.com.ng reports.

Despite the presence of CD Leganes defender Kenneth Omeruo and Leon Balogun the Portuguese gaffer still prefers to play Bassey in the central defence alongside Semi Ajayi.

Paseiro explained the reason during a press conference at the end of Nigeria's 10-0 thrashing of Sao Tome and Principe on Monday.

"I have many players in this position, Bassey can play left-back and centre-back, I like him, is cool he can play in both positions.

"Ekong is injured he didn't come with us, I have Omeruo also on the bench, he didn't train much with the team and I have many players for other positions. This match was good they tried to destabilize our organisation but we stay strong. I have many good central defenders.

"I have 25 players and to choose 11 that will start is not easy, I believe in my players and they believe in me that I will choose the best for each match," he said.

Nigeria's next game will be against Guinea Bissau and it will back to back game against them.