‘Dele-Bashiru has lots to learn tactically’

Lazio legend Bruno Giordano believes Fisayo Dele-Bashiru has the physical and attacking qualities to trouble opponents, but says the Nigerian midfielder still has significant tactical development ahead of him, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

Giordano, while assessing the options available to Lazio coach Gennaro Gattuso, singled out Dele-Bashiru as a player capable of making a difference with his strength, directness and ability to compete in individual battles.

“Dele-Bashiru? He’s a player who gives the impression of being dangerous. He’s undisciplined in the game, but he has physical and attacking skills. It’s unlikely because he’s a man-on-man duel, even if he still has a lot to learn tactically,” he said, as quoted by Lazio News.

The former Lazio striker’s assessment underlines the qualities that have made Dele-Bashiru an intriguing option for Gattuso, while also identifying tactical discipline as an area the midfielder needs to improve.

Dele-Bashiru’s progress was interrupted by a thigh injury sustained during Lazio’s 1-0 Serie A victory over Bologna on August 24.

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The Nigerian started the encounter but was forced off after 54 minutes, with subsequent medical examinations revealing a first- or second-degree tear that was expected to keep him out for at least three weeks.

The setback also ruled him out of Nigeria’s September international assignments, with Super Eagles coach Éric Chelle leaving him out of the squad for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.

Lazio subsequently adopted a cautious approach to his recovery, with Gattuso confirming in September that the club would not rush the midfielder back into action as he continued his rehabilitation.

Dele-Bashiru returned to full group training towards the end of September after more than a month on the sidelines, marking an important step in his recovery.

He will now look to regain full match fitness and work his way back into contention as Lazio continue their Serie A campaign.

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