I am match fit - AFCON 2023 MVP William Troost-Ekong says after omission from Finidi's Super Eagles WCQ squad

William Troost-Ekong is expected to watch the game between the Super Eagles and South Africa in Uyo next week.

FOOTBALL I am match fit - AFCON 2023 MVP William Troost-Ekong says after omission from Finidi's Super Eagles WCQ squad

I am match fit - AFCON 2023 MVP William Troost-Ekong says after omission from Finidi's Super Eagles WCQ squad

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 05:30 - 31.05.2024

William Troost-Ekong clarified in Lagos that he is fit and ready whenever Finidi George needs him ahead of the WCQ.

Super Eagles captain and AFCON 2023 MVP William Troost-Ekong has claimed he is fully fit and ready to represent Nigeria if called by Finidi George in the upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers against South Africa and Benin Republic.

Troost-Ekong, who led Nigeria to the AFCON 2023 final, was a notable omission from the 23-man squad announced by new manager Finidi George for the crucial double-header. 

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Troost-Ekong clarifies Super Eagles absence

It was widely assumed that the inspirational defender was still recovering from an injury sustained during the continental tournament.

However, in a Meet and Greet with the media in Lagos, Troost-Ekong has set the record straight.

William Troost-Ekong at the meet and greet and unveiling of the fans jersey for his Foundation match.
William Troost-Ekong at the meet and greet and unveiling of the fans jersey for his Foundation match.

 "They predicted it would take three to four months for me to come back, I came back in nine weeks,” Troost-Ekong stated on Thursday night. 

“I am match fit; I didn't play in the last games (for PAOK) but that's up to the coach to decide. But I was back with the team training two weeks before the end.”

Super Eagles star Troost-Ekong led Nigeria to the final of the AFCON 2023
Super Eagles star Troost-Ekong led Nigeria to the final of the AFCON 2023.

“I am fit now, so if anything happens to the current squad (Super Eagles), Finidi George has my full support. But I can thank God that I am back fit again."

The 30-year-old's exclusion from the squad had raised eyebrows, with many fans questioning the decision, given his pivotal role in Nigeria's impressive AFCON 2023 campaign.

Nigeria vs Ghana
Super Eagles new coach Finidi George will be under pressure to explain Troost-Ekong's absence in his latest squad. Finidi George made some tactical alterations in Nigeria's win over Ghana (Imago)

 Troost-Ekong's declaration of fitness will now put pressure on Finidi George to reconsider his selection for the crucial World Cup qualifiers.

As the Super Eagles look to maintain their push for a place in the 2026 World Cup, the availability of their inspirational captain could be a game-changer. 

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Troost-Ekong's inclusion would bolster the team's defensive solidity and experience as they seek to overcome their regional rivals in the upcoming fixtures.

All eyes will now be on Finidi George's response and whether he will recall the AFCON 2023 MVP to the Super Eagles squad for the crucial World Cup qualifiers.

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