Lazio boss Marco Baroni has shed light on his surprise decision to start Fisayo Dele-Bashiru in Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Juventus at the Stadio Olimpico, backing the Super Eagles midfielder to exploit spaces and win key duels in midfield against the Bianconeri.
The Italian manager handed Dele-Bashiru a surprise starting berth—his first since the clash against Roma on April 13—after the Nigerian had been an unused substitute in Lazio’s previous four matches leading up to the Juventus encounter.
Baroni explained that he started former Hatayaspor man because he believed the midfielder’s physicality and pace could give Lazio an edge in duels against Locatelli, adding that the tactical approach was well executed, though Dele-Bashiru was substituted in the 53rd minute and replaced by Boulaye Dia.
Baroni backs Dele-Bashiru’s inclusion, citing tactical edge against Juventus
In his post-match press conference, Baroni pointed to Dele-Bashiru's ability to compete physically and tactically against the Bianconeri.
“Dele-Bashiru starter? They have Locatelli who stretches and I believed that in the race Dele could win the duels, so much so that a couple of times he almost didn't reach the goal. In my opinion the game was interpreted well,” Baroni said as shared by La Lazio Manoi.
The 24-year-old initially joined Lazio on a season-long loan from Turkish side Hatayspor, with an option to make the move permanent. The deal, reportedly worth €7 million, has now been finalised, securing the Nigerian midfielder's stay in the Italian capital until 2028.
The former Sheffield Wednesday man has made 29 appearances for Lazio, starting 17 of those matches. During this time, he has scored two goals, provided three assists, and averaged 59 minutes per game.
