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Rangers: Celtic writer praises Bassey performance

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Calvin Bassey has come in for praise from Sky Sports creator Chris Hamill for his impressive performance in Rangers’ memorable Europa League semi-final triumph. 

The versatile Nigerian defender was immense as the Gers reached a European final for the first time since 2008 with a spectacular 3-1 at Ibrox over RB Leipzig overturning a 1-0 first-leg deficit. 

Signed from Leicester City in the summer of 2020 the 22-year-old has swapped between left-back and left centre-back this season in the absence of Filip Helander and has been integral to the Light Blues’ success this season. 

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His impressive showing last night sparked plaudits from many including Hamill who commended his progress this season.

He tweeted:

‘Calvin Bassey only had three league starts under his belt before this season. He’s no CCV – but his progress has been impressive. Superb tonight.’

TIF Thoughts on Bassey…

Used primarily as a left-back under Steven Gerrard, Bassey has developed into a more mature defender which current boss Giovanni van Bronckhorst said he first spotted while in the stands having been appointed the day before the club’s Premier Sports cup semi-final defeat to Hibernian. 

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Last night the Dutchman hailed his player’s development as “amazing” and at two years younger than Cameron Carter-Vickers, who Hamill referenced, he has time to further progress. 

The Nigerian international has been slammed before this season but last night he rose to the occasion and stood tall to repel a Leipzig side who had beaten Manchester City already this term and scored three times at the Etihad Stadium, highlighting their quality. 

He led the game in tackles (5) and ground duels won (8) as well as contributing four clearances, one block, one interception and wasn’t dribbled past once on the night.

It was a colossal performance from the growing talent and his stock will continue to rise.

With a European final to look forward to he can be assured that he played his part in getting the team there and is garnering admirers along the way.

AND in other news, GVB could be forced to ‘bite the bullet’ over trio’s Rangers exit – journalist

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