Lazio manager Marco Baroni has urged Super Eagles midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru to step up his performances in crucial moments after the 1-1 draw against Torino on Monday.
Returning from injury, Dele-Bashiru was introduced as a second-half substitute by the Italian manager, replacing Pedro. The 61-year-old believed the game played to the midfielder’s strengths but stressed the need for the 24-year-old to be more decisive in the final third.
He had been sidelined with an ankle injury sustained during Lazio’s goalless draw against Venezia on February 22. The setback also forced him to miss Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup qualifying fixtures in March.
In what areas can Fisayo Dele-Bashiru still improve?
Speaking in his post-match press conference, Baroni explained his decision to introduce Dele-Bashiru as a second-half substitute and highlighted the need for the midfielder to make a greater impact in key attacking areas.
“Pedro asked me to be substituted because he had given his all, he had a crazy game. I put Dele-Bashiru on because there was space for him, it was his game. The problem is that he has to do better when he enters the area,” the Italian manager said, as reported by La Lazio Siamo Noi.
Dele-Bashiru initially joined Lazio on a season-long loan from Turkish side Hatayspor, with an option to make the move permanent. The deal, reportedly worth €7 million, has now been finalised, securing the Nigerian midfielder's stay in the Italian capital until 2028.
The Manchester City Academy graduate has netted five goals and provided two assists in 25 appearances for Lazio across all competitions, averaging 50 minutes per game.
