Bassey opts for Nigeria to make mother proud

RANGERS defender Calvin Bassey has revealed he opted to play for Nigeria to make his mother proud.

The Ibrox defender was named in the Super Eagles squad for the first time for their World Cup qualifiers this month where they play against Central African Republic home and away.

And the 21-year-old revealed he opted to play for the African nation out of respect for his mum.

Bassey (right) said: ‘My mother played a huge role in making me decide on playing for Nigeria.

‘It has been her dream and I am glad she is alive to see it come to pass. If all goes well, she will likely follow me to Nigeria to see me in the colours of the team she loves for the first time.’

And Nigeria manager Gernot Rohr admits he’s thrilled Bassey accepted the call-up.

He said: ‘I am so proud of Bassey and very happy that he chose to play for Nigeria.

‘It is important to have him in quickly because it is one of the last moments where we can test new players. That is why he is in our list now.

‘Last time he was in our list but he couldn’t come because of a positive Covid test. He was unlucky.

‘Now it is October and this is the right moment, he is the only new player that we have invited into this squad.’