Nigerian trio driving Fulham, Forest’s EPL success

Super Eagles stars Alex Iwobi, Calvin Bassey and Ola Aina have played pivotal roles in helping their respective clubs Fulham and Nottingham Forest exceed expectations in the Premier League this season, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
Fulham, currently 10th in the league with 23 points from 15 games, their second-best tally at this stage in Premier League history, demonstrated their progress last weekend by holding title-chasing Arsenal to a 1-1 draw at Craven Cottage.
The result helped league leaders Liverpool maintain their six-point advantage at the summit, with both Iwobi and Bassey putting in impressive performances for Marco Silva’s side.
Iwobi, who has been in scintillating form this season, has already matched his best Premier League goal tally with five strikes, establishing himself as Fulham’s joint-top scorer.
The former Arsenal man credits manager Silva for his excellent performances, praising the Portuguese tactician’s approach to allowing players express themselves.
“If I do make a mistake, I can go again,” Iwobi added.
“It’s nice to have a manager who gives you the confidence to do that. Players normally do well when they are confident and with me, feeling confident to express myself on and off the pitch, I almost feel unstoppable.”
Meanwhile, Nottingham Forest’s impressive form has seen them climb to fifth place, with defender Aina playing a crucial role in their success under new manager Nuno Espirito Santo.
The versatile defender, who joined Forest on a free transfer in July 2023, has featured in all of the club’s Premier League matches this season, contributing one goal as the Tricky Trees continue to defy expectations.
His performances have reportedly earned him a new contract offer from Forest, with the club looking to ward off interest from Serie A giants AC Milan.
Both teams face stern tests this weekend, with Fulham travelling to Anfield to face Liverpool, while Forest host in-form Aston Villa at the City Ground.
The Cottagers’ European aspirations remain alive as they sit just four points behind Manchester City in the race for Champions League spots, while Forest’s remarkable season sees them ahead of Villa in fifth place on goal difference.

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