Lazio have decided to keep Fisayo Dele-Bashiru out of Sunday’s friendly against Arezzo as the Nigerian midfielder continues his recovery from a hamstring injury, Bold Sports reports.
The 25-year-old has featured in two competitive matches for Lazio this season. He played 71 minutes against Mantova in the Coppa Italia before starting the Serie A opener against Bologna. Dele-Bashiru lasted 54 minutes in the 1-0 win before the injury forced his withdrawal.
Dele-Bashiru has since made progress in his recovery. He has also overcome the physical problem that recently kept him away from training.
However, Lazio coach Gennaro Gattuso does not want to rush the midfielder back into action. The club will therefore leave him out of the Arezzo friendly at Formello, according to Lazio News 24.
Medical examinations after the Bologna match confirmed a grade-one hamstring strain.
The injury came at a difficult stage for the Super Eagles midfielder. It ruled him out of several Lazio fixtures during his recovery.
His fitness issue also affected his international commitments. Nigeria left the Lazio midfielder out of the squad for the opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.
Dele-Bashiru’s absence has also drawn attention from the Super Eagles setup. His injury previously raised concerns over his availability for Nigeria’s qualifying campaign.
Lazio have now opted for patience as the midfielder moves closer to a full return.
Dele-Bashiru is expected to resume full training with the Lazio squad at the beginning of next week.
That return should allow the Nigerian to increase his workload gradually. Lazio will then assess his condition ahead of their next competitive fixtures.
For Gattuso, the priority remains ensuring Dele-Bashiru completes his recovery before returning to match action. The midfielder will therefore miss the Arezzo friendly as Lazio continue to manage his comeback carefully.
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