Marseille legend and retired Senegal international Mamadou Niang believes Calvin Bassey possesses every quality needed to step seamlessly into the role vacated by William Troost-Ekong at the heart of Nigeria's defence.

Troost-Ekong, the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations Player of the Tournament, shocked many last week when he announced his retirement from international football. 

The 32-year-old brought an end to a decade-long Super Eagles career after Nigeria failed to qualify for the 2026 Fifa World Cup through the African playoffs — a decision made all the more surprising given his inclusion in the provisional squad for Afcon 2025.

Before calling time on his international career, Troost-Ekong had slipped down the pecking order, with Super Eagles manager Eric Chelle favouring rising talent Benjamin Fredrick over the experienced centre-back.

In contrast, Bassey has emerged as an indispensable figure for both club and country. 

The Fulham defender was the only Nigerian player to feature in every minute of the 2026 World Cup qualification campaign, including the high-stakes playoff fixtures.

Niang, who featured in four Afcon tournaments during his illustrious career, is convinced that Bassey has matured into a commanding, reliable centre-half ready to anchor Nigeria's backline in Morocco. 

Asked on Canal+ whether the Fulham star can fill Troost-Ekong's void at the upcoming Afcon, Niang responded:: "With what I see at Fulham, the impact he has in Premier League matches, he is a talented, tough defender who has very good distribution with his left foot, and athletic quality which is above average.

"He is a player I think is a leader of the Nigeria defence, who can replace Troost-Ekong, who took this Nigerian team to the Afcon final.

"Calvin Bassey is more than capable of succeeding him in that position.”

Bassey's performances in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast offer further evidence of his growing reputation. 

He was a defensive pillar throughout the tournament, helping goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali keep four consecutive clean sheets.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel