He had some issues - Ikpeba explains Bassey’s bench role as Fulham manage defender’s fitness

Former Nigerian international Victor Ikpeba has offered insight into why Fulham manager Marco Silva may have recently left Calvin Bassey out of his starting lineup, suggesting fatigue and the demanding football calendar as possible reasons.

Bassey, who was ever-present for Fulham before departing for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with Nigeria, has yet to start a Premier League match since returning from international duty.

The centre-back was again named on the bench in Fulham’s 3-2 defeat to Manchester United at Old Trafford on Sunday.

The former Ajax defender was introduced late in the game, replacing Jorge Cuenca in the 86th minute, as Fulham pushed for a late equaliser.

Speaking on SuperSport’s Monday Night Football, Ikpeba explained that Silva’s decision could be linked to player welfare, noting that the intensity of modern football often forces managers to rotate their squads.

“Maybe fatigue, I don’t know. Maybe he had some issues. It happens sometimes. These players are not machines,” Ikpeba said.

He added, “Maybe the manager feels that Calvin needs a little bit of a breather because the games are coming simultaneously. Sometimes the players need some breaks.”

Before heading to AFCON, Bassey had been a key figure for the Cottagers, featuring in every Premier League game this season and establishing himself as one of Silva’s most reliable defenders.

With Fulham now preparing for their next league fixture against Everton, the Super Eagles star will be hoping to reclaim his place in the starting XI and play a key role in helping the club return to winning ways.