bet9ja.com
Tom Dele-Bashiru showcased his resilience by scoring on his return to Watford’s lineup during a thrilling 2-2 draw against Sunderland in the English Championship. After missing action since October due to a knee injury, the former Flying Eagles midfielder made an instant impact by converting a crucial penalty in the 43rd minute, leveling the score at 1-1. This marked Dele-Bashiru’s third goal of the season.
bet9ja.com
His return is a significant boost for Watford, who currently sit in 10th place with 42 points from 31 games, just three points shy of the promotion playoff zone.
bit.ly
Editorial
bit.ly
Dele-Bashiru’s performance represents much more than a goal it’s a testament to perseverance and timing. After enduring a lengthy spell on the sidelines, many athletes struggle to regain their confidence and form. Dele-Bashiru, however, has not only returned but has done so with flair. This signals hope for Watford, who have been inconsistent throughout the season, fighting to breach the top six.
bit.ly
We believe this performance could be pivotal. A fit Dele-Bashiru adds depth and creativity to Watford’s midfield, a key area for any team aiming to achieve promotion. His understanding of the game, combined with his chemistry with his teammates, could help Watford gather points in their promotion chase.
bet9ja.com
The upcoming games are a litmus test for both the team and Dele-Bashiru. With momentum on their side, they must capitalise on this moment. Teams around them are also vying for playoff spots, but the difference often lies in having players like Dele-Bashiru who can deliver when it matters most.
bit.ly
Watford’s ambitions shouldn’t just be about qualifying for the playoffs—they should strive to reach them as one of the in-form teams. If Dele-Bashiru’s recovery is an omen, then Watford’s season might just be entering its most promising phase.
Did You Know?
Dele-Bashiru [represented](https://www.footballinnigeria.com.ng/category/football-training-and-coaching/) Nigeria’s U20 team, the Flying Eagles, in the FIFA U20 World Cup.
His younger brother, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, is also a professional footballer and currently plays for Hatayspor in Turkey.
Tom Dele-Bashiru began his youth career at Manchester City before moving to [Watford](https://www.footballinnigeria.com.ng/news/interviews/sunday-oliseh-names-festus-onigbinde-worst-coach-in-super-eagles-history/) in 2019.
Watford were relegated from the Premier League in the 2021/22 season but have retained several key players, including Dele-Bashiru, to mount a promotion bid.
Sunderland’s [Stadium](https://www.footballinnigeria.com.ng/football-culture/ahmed-musas-2024-earnings-unveiled-astonishing-net-worth-revealed/) of Light, where the match took place, is one of the largest football stadiums in England, with a capacity of over 49,000.