Nigeria Players Abroad
Troy Deeney refuses to back down in subtle feud with William Troost-Ekong
By Oluwadamilola Olaleye
Troy Deeney is showing no signs of softening his stance in his ongoing back-and-forth with Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong, as their simmering dispute continues to attract attention.
The tension began when CBS pundit Michael Lahoud questioned Ekong’s leadership, suggesting the defender speaks more off the pitch than he influences on it. Deeney then intensified the debate, arguing that Ekong lacked the forcefulness required to challenge the Nigerian Football Federation on behalf of the national team.
Following Nigeria’s 4–1 victory over Gabon, Ekong expressed surprise at Deeney’s comments, saying the former Watford striker could have reached out privately instead of criticising him publicly. The exchange appeared unresolved — prompting yet another response.
Speaking via TalkSPORT, Deeney doubled down:
“What did I say that’s not respectful? I’ve said exactly what it is. He’s a good kid. He did give me a shirt, because I collect shirts. It’s a weird one.
“If I remotely cared about giving him a call, I would, but I don’t. I could call Will; he’s a good kid.
“In my opinion, when it comes to those situations with the federation, you do need to be a bit nasty, you need to be horrible, and I don’t think I saw that character from him at Watford.
“You know what happens when someone tells the truth? It hurts.
“So, if I offended you, Will, deal with it. Crack on. If I were remotely disrespectful, I would do it the right way because you know me.
“Secondly, if you had to tell people how many caps you’ve had and all that stuff you’re doing, you’re not that secure in yourself.
“Just chill. Nigeria won. Don’t talk about us; let us do the media stuff, you do your podcast. Love you and see you soon.”
Despite the ongoing verbal tussle, Troost-Ekong remains focused on Sunday’s crucial playoff final against DR Congo as Nigeria aim to secure a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
