‘You have to question Bassey’ — Manchester United legend blames Super Eagles star for Fulham’s Chelsea loss

Chelsea climbed to the top of the Premier League, at least temporarily, after defeating Fulham 2-0 in a heated West London derby at Stamford Bridge.

But while Chelsea celebrated, much of the post-match conversation centred around Fulham’s defending, with Manchester United legend Peter Schmeichel singling out Super Eagles defender Calvin Bassey for criticism.

The turning point came late in the first half when Pedro rose highest to nod home a corner delivered by Fernández.

Although Fulham players protested, hoping VAR would disallow the goal after Pedro appeared to impede goalkeeper Bernd Leno, the strike stood.

Analyzing the moment on Premier League Productions, Schmeichel argued that while Pedro did make contact with Leno, Fulham’s centre-backs must take responsibility.

“You have to question Bassey and Andersen there as well. How can a player jump back in between them and head the ball?” the Dane said. He insisted that Fulham’s defensive pairing allowed Chelsea’s forward far too much space in a dangerous area.

Fulham’s irritation only grew in the second half when Fernández coolly converted from the penalty spot to double Chelsea’s lead.

By then, Marco Silva’s side were chasing shadows, unable to break down a Blues defence that has now kept seven clean sheets in their last nine Premier League games at Stamford Bridge.

For Chelsea, it was a statement win that underlined their early-season form, while for Bassey and Fulham, Schmeichel’s words will sting as a reminder of how costly one lapse in concentration can be.