Speaking in the post-match press conference after Lazio’s 2–0 defeat to Atalanta in a Serie A fixture on Saturday, Lazio full-back Adam Marušić highlighted the qualities of Fisayo Dele-Bashiru.

For the first time this season, the Nigeria international completed the full 90 minutes in a Serie A match, partnering Kenneth Taylor and Danilo Cataldi in a three-man midfield.

Four minutes before the interval, Éderson handed the Nerazzurri the lead from the penalty spot, before former Roma man Nicola Zalewski doubled the advantage in the 60th minute.

Dele-Bashiru had provided a crucial assist in his previous outing as Lazio defeated Bologna on penalties to book a place in the semi-finals of the Coppa Italia.

Marušić spoke about the growing influence of the Super Eagles midfielder, noting that he was particularly decisive against Bologna, where his intelligent movement and attacking thrust proved pivotal.

In quotes relayed by La Lazio Siamo Noi, the Montenegro right-back stated: "Dele-Bashiru? We know his qualities, he's quick and good at finding space, like he did in Bologna. 

"It's easy for him to make this forward movement, we're definitely testing it in training and in matches."

Manchester City academy graduate Dele-Bashiru was linked with a return to English football in the January transfer window, with the likes of Nottingham Forest and Bournemouth credited with an interest, but a move failed to materialise before the transfer window closed.

The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations star has a contract with Lazio until the end of the 2027-2028 season.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel