Because the Tremendous Eagles put together for his or her essential Africa Cup of Nations 2025 qualifiers in opposition to Libya, William Troost-Ekong has cleared the air on the workforce’s captaincy, reaffirming that Ahmed Musa stays the official captain of the Nigerian nationwide workforce.
Troost-Ekong, who has worn the captain’s armband in Musa’s absence over the previous yr, was requested concerning the veteran ahead’s return to motion within the Nigeria Premier Soccer League (NPFL) with Kano Pillars. Musa lately marked his comeback with a brace in a 2-0 win over Sunshine Stars, sparking discussions about his availability for the nationwide workforce as soon as once more.
Talking at a media day in Ikot Ekpene forward of the AFCON qualifiers, Troost-Ekong expressed delight over Musa’s return and made it clear that the previous Leicester Metropolis man remains to be considered the chief of the Tremendous Eagles.
“We’re blissful he’s again,” Troost-Ekong stated. “He’s nonetheless our captain, and he’s welcome again anytime. He’s our most capped participant, a very good position mannequin, and an ideal chief. I’m blissful to deputise for him.”
Musa, who holds the file as Nigeria’s most capped participant, has been out of the Tremendous Eagles squad as a consequence of restricted recreation time and accidents however stays an influential determine within the workforce. Troost-Ekong, his deputy, has stepped up in his absence, however the centre-back was fast to acknowledge Musa’s management and constructive influence on the squad.
Musa’s spectacular return to the NPFL has reignited conversations about whether or not he may very well be referred to as up for Nigeria’s November worldwide fixtures. Whereas it stays unsure if the Tremendous Eagles coach will recall the ahead, Troost-Ekong’s phrases affirm that Musa’s presence is all the time valued throughout the nationwide setup.