Super Eagles midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru has opened up about the role he feels most comfortable in and the qualities he brings to the pitch, describing himself as a dynamic midfielder capable of influencing both ends of the game.
Initially joining Lazio on a season-long loan from Turkish side Hatayspor—with an option to buy reportedly valued at €7 million—Dele-Bashiru has now completed a permanent move, signing a deal that keeps him in the Italian capital until 2028.
Under manager Marco Baroni, the versatile midfielder has already been deployed in various roles across the midfield.
Fresh from a spell on the sidelines due to injury, the 24-year-old has returned with clarity about where he thrives most — in central areas, operating as a true box-to-box midfielder.
Fisayo Dele-Bashiru a true ‘box-to-box midfielder'
In a recent interview with Sports Boom, Dele-Bashiru revealed his preferred role on the pitch, sending a message to Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle.
“My favourite role would be that of a box-to-box midfielder, in a number 8 or 10 position. With the ball at my feet and with my running, I can attack and defend well. In general, I am what you would call a box-to-box midfielder,” he said.
This adaptable approach comes at a crucial time for the Super Eagles, particularly following the recent 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe, where Samuel Chukwueze was deployed out of position in central midfield due to a shortage of available midfielders.
Dele-Bashiru himself missed those matches through injury, but whenever he has played for Nigeria since his debut, he has been decisive — often making key contributions in both attacking and defensive phases.
The former Sheffield Wednesday man has made 28 appearances for Lazio, starting 17 of those matches. During this time, he has scored two goals, provided three assists, and averaged 59 minutes per game.
