Former Flying Eagles midfielder Tom Dele-Bashiru has secured his footballing future with a fresh three-year contract at English Championship club Watford.
The 24-year-old, who initially began his career at Manchester City, has found a new home at Vicarage Road after a career journey has been anything but straightforward.
Despite his promising start at Eastlands, Tom struggled to break into the first team. In 2019, he made the switch to Watford after his contract expired.
Unfortunately, injuries plagued his early seasons with the Hornets, hindering his progress with the club and anticipated graduation to the Super Eagles after his brilliant showing with Nigeria's U20 team at the 2019 FIFA World Cup.
Watford reward Dele-Bashiru for good performance
Last season, Dele-Bashiru emerged as a key player for Watford. His consistent performances caught the eye, resulting in two goals and two assists across 35 appearances.
Despite Watford finishing 15th in the English Championship, Dele-Bashiru’s impact was undeniable.
Impressed by his dedication and growth, Watford management decided to extend Dele-Bashiru’s contract.
Originally set to expire in 2025, the midfielder will now remain with the club until 2028. The New York Times reports that the Manchester City Academy graduate has signed a three-year extension, securing his future in yellow.
International ties with Nigeria
Tom Dele-Bashiru’s dual eligibility—born in England to Nigerian parents—adds an intriguing layer to his story.
While he represented England at under-16 level, he later switched allegiances to play for Nigeria at under-20 and under-23 levels, fulfilling a life-long dream of playing for the country where his parents emigrated from.
Tom has not yet featured for the Super Eagles, unlike his younger brother Fisayo, who boasts two caps for Nigeria’s at full international level.
As Watford eyes a return to the Premier League, Dele-Bashiru aims to play a pivotal role in their promotion campaign.
With renewed confidence and a fresh contract, he’s ready to help his team return to the Premier League as well as break into the Super Eagles
