'Was a joy to watch' - Rangers defender Bassey names ex-PSG no.10 as role model

Published: December 12, 2021

Glasgow Rangers rising star Calvin Bassey has admitted his admiration for Austin Jay-Jay Okocha, naming the former Paris Saint-Germain number 10 as his role model.

The versatile fullback is aiming to gatecrash the Super Eagles squad for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations on the back of his fine form for Rangers this season.

Born in Italy but grew up in England, Bassey has seemingly pledged his international future to Nigeria having accepted a call-up to the national team for their World Cup qualifying matches with Central African Republic in October 2021.

Okocha, Bassey's idol, attended five Africa Cup of Nations, helping the Super Eagles finish on the podium on each occasion.

The Leicester City academy product also discussed the quality in the Super Eagles and what he can bring to the side.

In quotes relayed by Daily Record, Bassey said : "There is no doubt we have plenty of quality in the national team. Joe Aribo plays with me and he knows what I can do.

"I will bring energy and physicality to the Eagles’ defence and will also bring a bit of doggedness to African football.

"I know it will be physical, but I think that will play to my strengths. Growing up and watching the Super Eagles, Jay Jay Okocha was my role model.

"He was so confident in the ball and that's something I love to emulate. He was not scared to take on players and express himself and he was a joy to watch."

Bassey has been named in the starting lineup for Rangers' Scottish Premiership meeting with Hearts this afternoon, starting in central defence as cover for the injured Super Eagles star Leon Balogun.

Igho Kingsley

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