Super Eagles defender Calvin Bassey has expressed optimism over teammate Benjamin Fredrick's recovery and potential return to the national team setup, noting that his presence would be a major boost for Nigeria in future competitions.

Fredrick's hopes of featuring at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations were dashed after he picked up a knee injury during training with Belgian club FCV Dender EH, dealing a major blow to the Super Eagles' defensive options.

Speaking during a pre-match media session, Bassey admitted he has not spoken directly with the central defender but remains confident in his talent and future contribution.

"I haven't spoken to him but it will be amazing for him to showcase his talent on this stage. I wish him speedy recovery and I hope he will be back with us next year," he told 54 Footballx.

Addressing concerns about increased pressure on the Super Eagles following the team's failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Bassey maintained that the players remain focused on their objectives.

"I think we play every game trying to give our actual best. Sometimes it is God's will and sometimes it is not," he stated. 

"We can't really focus on the past, we have to focus on the future because we have to remain positive.

"There will always be pressure on Nigeria, there's always going to be pressure on us, from ourselves, from the country, but we need to start focusing on what we have to do."

Bassey also spoke about the growing on-field chemistry among the team's attacking players, highlighting his long-standing connection with Alex Iwobi and the impact of the team's other forwards.

"I think of course, we have been playing with each other. I mean Alex, we played with each other for a long time now, so we have a great understanding of each other, we know each other's strengths and we can hopefully bring that to the team and Chukwueze also."

Nigeria will begin their AFCON journey on Tuesday evening when they face Tanzania at the Fez Stadium. 

Super Eagles manager Eric Chelle will be hoping for a strong performance to boost the Super Eagles' chances of progressing from the group stage.

Adeyemi Adewale