Bright Osayi-Samuel: Media react to Birmingham City’s star display after being ‘caught out’ for Nigeria
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Credit: Imago Sat 28 March 2026 10:00, UK Bright Osayi-Samuel was involved in Nigeria’s recent 2-1 victory over Iran in Friday’s friendly.The Birmingham City player started in the tie, with the international break currently underway in the Championship.However, despite his solid display, the Nigerian media were quick to point out multiple weaknesses.This included his defensive qualities and his crossing ability.Below, Football Insider has examined the truth behind the performance as Birmingham target a return to form after the international break.Bright Osayi-Samuel’s weaknesses exposed in Nigeria win Osayi-Samuel has had a tough season at the Blues so far. MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES The right-back has put in numerous dreadful displays, which led to him warming the bench for the last four matches, despite Birmingham’s declining form.Bright Osayi-Samuel’s Championship stats this seasonPer 90 minutesTackles 1.11Interceptions 0.87Recoveries 4.12Clearances 1.98Clean sheets 0.08Osayi-Samuel has some poor stats.
Credit: FotmobTherefore, it will be little surprise to many of the St Andrews faithful that Osayi-Samuel struggled in Nigeria’s recent victory.While the result was a solid one for the African side, as they beat an Iran team that is preparing for the 2026 World Cup in the summer.However, many in the side were far from perfect, with Pulse Sports on 27 March quick to highlight Osayi-Samuel’s weaknesses.Full-time#IRNNGA #SoarSuperEagles pic.twitter.com/551p4UFyMm— 🇳🇬 Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) March 27, 2026 They wrote: “Showcased his attacking intent but was occasionally caught out defensively. His final ball and crossing accuracy need refinement.”The outlet went on to give the defender a 6.5/10, a respectable rating for the win.Does Osayi-Samuel have a future at Birmingham City?Despite only signing for Birmingham in the summer, it has quickly become clear that Osayi-Samuel is not up to the standard required.This season, it looks highly unlikely that the Blues will get promoted after their recent dip in form, meaning they will have to prepare the squad yet again for promotion in the summer.Simply put, if you want to reach the Championship, your whole squad has to be brimming with quality, something Birmingham doesn’t possess.When examining the right-back position, this could spell danger for Osayi-Samuel, and a sale might be seen as a potential path to get someone better in, especially with the Championship set to become much more difficult next club.As a result, it may not be a shock if Osayi-Samuel’s stay at St Andrews comes to an end in the summer as the Blues take a ruthless approach to their squad in order to reach the promised land of the English top-flight. 🏆 Championship Insider Access Get the full story from across the EFL with our dedicated expert hubs: Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from across the EFL Championship.