Calvin Bassey has earned a well-deserved spot in BBC’s Premier League Team of the Week for gameweek 18 after delivering an inspired performance in Fulham’s dramatic 2-1 win over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. The Nigerian international's display was a key factor in Fulham securing their first Premier League victory at Stamford Bridge in decades, making his inclusion in the BBC's best XI all the more significant.
The game itself was full of twists and turns. Chelsea initially took the lead through a well-placed strike from Cole Palmer, but Fulham’s substitutes, Harry Wilson and Rodrigo Muniz, turned the game on its head, leading the club to a memorable win. The victory was a testament to Fulham’s resilience and determination, with Bassey playing a vital role in both attacking and defensive aspects of the game.
Bassey’s performance was particularly notable for his near-miss in the first half. The defender made a brilliant run from his own half, dribbling past several Chelsea players before unleashing a powerful shot at goal. However, Chelsea’s goalkeeper, Robert Sánchez, was quick to deny Bassey with an impressive save. Despite not scoring, Bassey’s attacking contributions were clear to see, and his energy and drive up the field were crucial to Fulham's success on the day.
Beyond his attacking flair, Bassey’s defensive performance was also exceptional. He had an impressive 103 touches, the most of any player on the pitch, showcasing his dominance in the midfield and ability to control the game. He also completed an outstanding 96.5% of his passes, displaying his precision and composure under pressure. In addition to his passing, Bassey was solid defensively, recording two successful dribbles, three interceptions, one tackle, and two clearances, all of which helped keep Chelsea at bay and ensured Fulham’s hard-earned victory.
Bassey’s inclusion in the BBC Team of the Week highlights not just his individual brilliance but also his vital role in Fulham’s historic win. The BBC’s Best XI for the week also featured standout players such as Curtis Jones and Cody Gakpo from Liverpool, as well as Newcastle’s Joelinton, Anthony Gordon, and Alexander Isak. Other notable mentions included Aaron Wan-Bissaka from West Ham and Pervis Estupinan from Brighton, all of whom made significant contributions in their respective matches.
