National Teams
‘It’s a surprise to me’ – William Troost-Ekong stunned by Super Eagles exclusion
By: Monsurah Olatunji
Nigeria assistant captain, William Troost-Ekong, has finally spoken about his recent absence from the national team.
PAOK defender has been absent from the team in the last two international breaks during which World Cup qualifiers took place. The Dutch-Nigerian man made his debut in 2015 and has since made 64 appearances for Nigeria which include playing at the World Cup and the Africa Cup of Nations.
However, it is yet to be seen if he will be called up for the tournament slated for Cote d’Ivoire from January to February 2024 as Jose Peseiro’s preferred center-backs Calvin Bassey and Semi Ajayi.
Despite the 30-year-old last played for Nigeria against Sao Tome and Principe in September, he is hopeful for a call-up as the Super Eagles are to camp in Saudi Arabia ahead of the 2023 AFCON campaign in January.
“No, I haven’t retired from international football,” he told Soccernet.
“I think it’s too early for me to make that decision. I’m still very willing, and yes supporting the team, I’ve been following the games like always.
“I think I have been part of the squad for like eight years now. So it has been a bit of a surprise for me.
“But the best I can do is to work hard in my club. I think I am showing that I can still be of great help for the team.
“Yeah, we will see what happens with AFCON. But I’m still very willing and I want the best for Nigeria.”
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