‘Sometimes you have to sit back down and learn again’

The Nigerian who moved to the Dutch Eredivise following his £19 million move from Rangers has been heavily criticised in the Netherlands after a string of poor display.Bassey has however bounced back and helped Ajax make history at the weekend as the first ever side to record 1500 victories in the Eredivise following the 1-0 defeat of NEC Nijmegen at the Johan Cruijff ArenA.
“Sometimes you have to sit back down and learn again.

“I had to start doing extra work on the training pitch. I decided to start again.

“While I was on the subs’ bench, I studied the way the defenders played. I spent a lot of time watching how Jurrien Timber and Edson Alvarez positioned themselves when they were in my position in defence.

“Don’t get me wrong, I was frustrated when I wasn’t playing. But I knew it was not all about me, it was about the team and winning games. It actually helped to be on the bench for a while.
“For me, it is a process and a development curve. I know I can improve a lot here.

“The manager told me to be ready when I am needed next and I was.

“Ajax have taught me a lot about the game. That is also the reason why I chose this club. It’s one of the best places to develop as a player,’ said the 23 year old.

Ajax boss John Heitinga has been delighted with Bassey’s progress after he was named as Man of the Match against NEC.
He said: “Calvin is very eager to learn. “His attitude is commendable and he wants to improve every day.”