Super Eagles hopeful Tom Dele-Bashiru marked his return from injury with a goal for Watford in their 2-2 draw against Sunderland at the Stadium of Light on Saturday.
The former Flying Eagles midfielder and older brother of Fisayo Dele-Bashiru scored from the penalty spot in the 43rd minute, leveling the game at 1-1 after Luke O’Nien had headed Sunderland in front early in the first half.
It was Dele-Bashiru’s third goal of the season in his 14th Championship appearance, a positive sign for Watford as he works his way back to full fitness.
Watford briefly led when Imran Louza fired them ahead just a minute after halftime, but they couldn’t hold on. Dennis Cirkin struck in the 89th minute to deny the Hornets a much-needed victory.
Despite dominating large spells of the game, Watford’s winless streak extended to four matches, leaving them 10th in the Championship standings.
Fisayo Backed to Excel for Lazio
Fisayo Dele-Bashiru. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
Meanwhile, in Italy, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru has been tipped to improve his performances for Serie A side Lazio as they gear up for the UEFA Europa League knockout stage.
The midfielder has helped his club secure the top spot in their group, contributing two goals and two assists in six games.
Despite his strong European form, Dele-Bashiru has struggled domestically, scoring just two goals in 14 league appearances.
Lazio manager Marco Baroni has shown confidence in the Nigerian by including him in the squad for the tournament’s knockout rounds.
Former Italian footballer Roberto Rambaudi expressed confidence in Fisayo’s ability to adapt better to European football, stating in an interview with SVB via Radiosei:
“In the European field Dele-Bashiru can adapt better. However, it is fair to say that the choices were made to give continuity to the group that has done well in Europe up to now.”
As he looks to refine his form in Italy, Fisayo also has one eye on international football, hoping to solidify his place in Nigeria’s squad ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.
