SS Lazio's new midfield addition Fisayo Dele-Bashiru has made a heartfelt plea to the club's supporters, asking for patience as he acclimates to the demands of Serie A football.
The 23-year-old Nigeria international, who arrived at the Italian club this summer on loan from Turkish side Hatayspor with an obligation to buy, has been handed the iconic number seven jersey as he embarks on his journey with the two-time Serie A champions.
In an interview with Lazio’s official TV channel, Bashiru spoke about adapting to the nuances of Italian football and expressed his desire to play in a role that suits his strengths.
Fisayo Dele-Bashiru slowly getting to grips with new surroundings
“Italian football is very tactical; this is the biggest challenge,” Dele-Bashiru explained. “My favourite role is as a number 8 or 10.
“I am ready to play and make the fans happy. I had some problems at the beginning of the season, but now I am better, and I am understanding what the coach wants.
“The training I received at Manchester City was very good, and Turkish football taught me a lot. I know I’ll need to adapt to Serie A, but I’ve found a very supportive environment here, and I hope we can have a great season.”
Born in Lagos to Nigerian parents, Bashiru moved to England at a young age and has had an international career that saw him score his first goal for the Super Eagles of Nigeria during a FIFA World Cup qualifier against South Africa.
The midfielder scored a brace in his new club's first preseason match as Lazio routed ninth-tier club CS Auronzo FC with a 23-0 victory.
