Fulham manager Marco Silva has declared his support for Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey, the two Nigerian players representing their nation in Sunday’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final.
Speaking ahead of his side’s Premier League clash against Bournemouth, Silva said he has bittersweet emotions surrounding their absence.
He said: “Of course, we have been watching. It’s a mixed feeling for us. It’s been a long time without two key players for us. Right now, we are supporting them in the final.”
Both Iwobi and Bassey have been pivotal figures in Nigeria’s charge to the final. Iwobi has started every game for the Super Eagles, while defender Bassey, after a substitute appearance in the opener, has been a regular figure in the starting lineup.
The Super Eagles will face hosts Cote d’Ivoire in the AFCON final at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Ebimpe, Abidjan, on Sunday evening.
