Dele-Bashiru returns from injury and Nigeria and Lazio get a big boost! | OneFootball

Nigerian midfielder returns from injury.

Getty Images

A wave of optimism is washing over both Lazio and the Nigerian national team as midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru turns a decisive corner in his recovery from a hamstring injury.

The 24-year-old talent, absent from the pitch since September and having missed three crucial Serie A matches, has now taken a significant step forward. In a promising update, Lazio's official communiqué confirmed that Dele-Bashiru has "resumed individual training and is nearing full fitness."

This positive turn of events arrives as a timely boost for Lazio's manager, Maurizio Sarri. With the team experiencing a patchy opening to the campaign, Sarri is eagerly anticipating the reintegration of the dynamic midfielder to help steady their course. For the Biancocelesti, his return could be the catalyst needed to revitalize their league ambitions.

The ripple effect of this recovery is also felt on the international stage, where Nigerian Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle will be breathing a sigh of relief. Dele-Bashiru's absence was felt during the recent qualifiers against Lesotho and Benin, matches that ultimately secured Nigeria's place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying playoffs. Having him back in contention is a major asset as Chelle assembles his squad for the high-stakes fixtures next month.

While the prognosis is increasingly positive, a note of caution remains. The upcoming Serie A clash against Juventus this Sunday is likely to come too soon for the former Manchester City prospect. His initial outings this season, before the injury setback, were challenging, as he searched for his first goal or assist in his four league appearances. Nonetheless, his impending return marks a new and hopeful chapter.