Lazio ‘Not Ready’ to Bring Back Dele-Bashiru Despite His Fitness

Lazio have reportedly decided not to return Fisayo Dele-Bashiru to their Serie A squad for Sunday’s home match against Lecce, even though the Nigerian midfielder is now fully fit.

Dele-Bashiru was removed from the squad list in September after suffering a muscle injury during the Rome Derby against Roma. Although he has recovered — and with Nicolo Rovella ruled out for a long spell — the 24-year-old was still left out.

According to reports from Italy, the main reason is linked to Dele-Bashiru’s expected call-up for Nigeria at next month’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco. Lazio reportedly do not want to change their squad list only to lose him again for several weeks.

Before his injury, Dele-Bashiru had made just four appearances for Lazio this season, and some Italian reporters also believe his early-season performances did not fully convince coach Maurizio Sarri.

A Football Italia correspondent explained the club’s thinking:

“He will soon be travelling for the Africa Cup of Nations, so making changes to the squad now would only create confusion. A final decision will be made after the AFCON.”

The report added that Lazio must also consider possible transfer options for the Nigerian midfielder and whether keeping flexibility in their squad list is better for the club.

Meanwhile, Lazio went on to beat Lecce 2–0 at the Stadio Olimpico on Sunday night.