"He really isn't as bad as people talk about" - Ex-Ajax winger says about Calvin Bassey
Posted : 30 May 2023
Despite the prevailing negative perception held by fans and pundits regarding Calvin Bassey, former Ajax Amsterdam winger Kenneth Perez remains steadfast in his belief that the talented central defender possesses more potential than he is credited for.
Last summer, Bassey completed a high-profile move from Leicester City's academy to Ajax Amsterdam, securing his status as the most expensive Nigerian defender in history.
The transfer involved a guaranteed fee of 23 million euros, with the possibility of additional performance-related variables increasing the total transfer fees to 26.5 million euros.
Unfortunately, Bassey's fortunes took a downturn following the appointment of Johnny Heitinga as coach, resulting in him losing his place in Ajax's starting lineup.
Since his return from international duty with the Super Eagles, the young defender has been granted only a solitary start in the Eredivisie out of a potential eight opportunities.
While Bassey undoubtedly possesses notable attributes such as speed and physicality, his deficiencies in terms of ball-playing skills and conforming to the traditional Ajax player archetype have garnered criticism.
However, Perez, drawing on his experience and expertise, refuses to dismiss Bassey's potential and believes that there is more to the defender's game than meets the eye.
Perez's stance suggests that Bassey's true abilities and worth are being overshadowed by the prevailing judgment of the public and pundits.
It is his contention that with the right guidance, support, and opportunities, Bassey can overcome these perceived shortcomings and prove his critics wrong, thereby establishing himself as a valuable asset within the esteemed Ajax Amsterdam squad.
"You can really let players come into their strength or weakness.
"They paid way too much for Bassey, but he really isn't as bad as people talk about.
"Davinson Sánchez really wasn't a hero on the ball either, but if you give him the order to take out a man… Bassey is now playing from his weakness, but he can really be of value in his strength," Perez said.
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