Lazio manager Marco Baroni has offered his assessment of Nigerian midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru's performance in the 2-0 defeat against AS Roma at the Stadio Olimpico.

Baroni shared his views following Dele-Bashiru's halftime substitution, with the team trailing by two goals.

AS Roma took an early lead through Lorenzo Pellegrini in the 11th minute, with Alexis Saelemaekers doubling the advantage just seven minutes later.

Dele-Bashiru struggled to make an impact in the midfield, frequently losing possession and failing to create significant scoring opportunities. 

The Nigerian international was dispossessed three times, managed only one shot, and completed just one key pass during his time on the pitch.

His struggles prompted Baroni to make two halftime changes, including introducing Boulaye Dia, who returned from injury and helped stabilize Lazio's performance in the second half.

Despite Dele-Bashiru's underwhelming display, Baroni refused to single him out for blame. 

Speaking after the match, he defended the Super Eagles midfielder and called for patience with his development.

"Dele is a guy we are building. The lower he starts, the better he works. This defeat was not his fault. Today, he lacked rhythm,” Baroni said as relayed by radiosei.it.

Adeyemi Adewale

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