Fenerbahce coach Mourinho names Osayi-Samuel in starting XI for the first time in six games

Fenerbahce coach Jose Mourinho named Bright Osayi-Samuel in the starting lineup for the first time in six matches as the Yellow Canaries thrashed RSC Anderlecht 3-0 in a Europa League encounter at Ülker Stadyumu FB Şükrü Saraçoğlu Spor Kompleksi on Thursday evening.

The Nigeria international featured as a substitute in the Süper Lig games against Göztepe and Alanyaspor, was an unused substitute versus Rizespor and Erzurumspor FK, and missed the Europa League tie against FC Midtjylland due to suspension.

Osayi-Samuel has lost his spot in the starting lineup amid speculation surrounding his future at the Istanbul giants.

The 27-year-old was heavily linked with a departure from Fenerbahce in the January transfer window but a deal did not happen, though the likes of Fulham and Crystal Palace were credited with an interest in the versatile right back.

With less than five months remaining on his contract, Fenerbahçe have offered him a new deal, but no agreement has been reached, leaving his future uncertain.

Before the visit of Anderlecht, the last time Osayi-Samuel was picked in the starting lineup was against Olympique Lyon on January 23.

Against Anderlecht, the Super Eagles defender was walking a disciplinary tightrope after receiving a booking for a foul on César Huerta in the 29th minute and was substituted for Mert Müldür before the start of the second half. 

Fenerbahce secured a huge victory before the second leg of the Europa League knockout phase playoffs, courtesy of goals from Dusan Tadic, Edin Dzeko and Youssef En-Nesyri.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel 

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