Troost-Ekong discusses return to Super Eagles

Posted : 14 June 2023

William Troost-Ekong, the experienced centre-back owned by Watford, has expressed his joy at returning to the Super Eagles squad for their Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match against Sierra Leone, stating that the team has moved past the disappointment of missing out on the World Cup and is focused on securing qualification for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations to redeem themselves.

Troost-Ekong had previously missed the qualifying games against Guinea-Bissau's Djurtus due to injury but is now eager to reclaim his spot in the starting lineup for the upcoming match against Sierra Leone, which will take place on Sunday, June 18.

A draw in that game will ensure Nigeria's participation in the Africa Cup of Nations, scheduled to be held in Ivory Coast next year.

During a post-training interview, Troost-Ekong expressed his excitement about being back in the squad, saying, "It has been amazing. I missed out in March because of injury. I want to support the team and play my part. I have always wanted to come back."

Reflecting on the pain of missing out on the World Cup, he added, "Missing out on the World Cup is a painful memory, but now we are looking ahead. I think we have put ourselves in a good position to qualify for the AFCON and redeem ourselves there."

When asked about the significance of including home-based players in the squad, Troost-Ekong emphasized its importance and praised the recent Nigerian Premier League playoffs, where some players from the domestic league were included.

He expressed his belief that the growth of the Nigerian Premier League and nurturing local talent is essential, stating, "We have so much talent in this country, and it would be great for players to start their career here and not leave for abroad straight away. For the players included, it is for them to push and show the coach what they can do, and it will be good for Nigeria to have a blend of foreign and local professionals."

Regarding the possibility of playing in the Nigerian Professional Football League after his career abroad comes to an end, Troost-Ekong responded with an open mind, saying, "Who knows? Never say never, and it would be a pleasure. We had our captain Musa do it who came back, and it was a boost for the league here. Maybe in the future, more of us will come back to Nigeria. For me, it will have to be Uyo. I will make sure I go home. We will see."

With Troost-Ekong's return and his determination to contribute to the team's success, the Super Eagles are focused on securing their place in the Africa Cup of Nations and making amends for their previous disappointment.

Troost-Ekong discusses return to Super Eagles

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