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Marco Silva defends Calvin Bassey after costly blunder in Newcastle defeat — insists ‘mistakes are part of football’

Fulham manager Marco Silva has thrown his support behind Calvin Bassey after the Nigerian defender’s early error gifted Newcastle United their opening goal in a 2-1 Premier League defeat at the weekend.

Bassey’s misplaced back pass in the first half allowed the hosts to take the lead, leaving Fulham chasing the game. But despite the setback, Silva refused to single out the 24-year-old, insisting that such moments are part of a player’s growth and the team’s development process.

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“Mistakes are part of the game,” Silva said. “What matters is how you react. Calvin knows what went wrong, but I was pleased with the way he responded afterwards. It’s about doing the basics right and staying composed under pressure.”

The Portuguese manager praised the team’s fighting spirit, highlighting their improved second-half display and urging his players to channel their frustration into their upcoming fixtures.

“We’ll face the pressure in a different way,” he continued. “I saw character and reaction from the boys — that’s the mentality we need to keep.”

Bassey, who has been a regular under Silva this season, is expected to retain his place when Fulham return to action next weekend, as the manager continues to back his defender to bounce back stronger.