Calvin Bassey reflects on progress at Ajax after fine display against NEC Nijmegen

Nigeria International defender Calvin Bassey has revealed the secret behind his recent form after putting in a man-of-the-match display for Ajax in a 1-0 victory over NEC Nijmegen.

The Nigerian drew criticism from past Dutch internationals, who questioned his signing and also moved to ask for his drop but Alfred Schreuder who was later sacked for poor run of results while keeping faith in Bassey.

Speaking after the game, the former Rangers man has reflected on his journey to recovery and desire to improve.

“Sometimes you have to sit back down and learn again,” Bassey said per Scottish Daily Express.

“I had to start doing extra work on the training pitch. I decided to start again. While I was on the subs’ bench, I studied the way the defenders played.

“I spent a lot of time watching how Jurrien Timber and Edson Alvarez positioned themselves when they were in my position in defense. Don’t get me wrong, I was frustrated when I wasn’t playing. But I knew it was not all about me, it was about the team and winning games.

“It actually helped to be on the bench for a while. For me, it is a process and a development curve. I know I can improve a lot here. The manager told me to be ready when I am needed next and I was.

“Ajax have taught me a lot about the game. That is also the reason why I chose this club. It’s one of the best places to develop as a player.”

Ajax have won their last seven Eredivisie games and they are just three points behind leaders Feyenoord.