William Troost Ekong: Super Eagles Defender Eyes Return to Action After Long Injury Layoff

• William Troost-Ekong is close to returning from his long injury layoff
• The Super Eagles captain underwent surgery in February this year
• He is expected to be available for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers

Nigerian football fans can breathe a sigh of relief as Super Eagles defender, William Troost-Ekong, inches closer to returning from his injury-induced hiatus.

The 30-year-old centre-back, who underwent surgery in February for an injury sustained during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, has begun light training and physical exercises.

With the end of the season fast approaching, the PAOK FC star is expected to swiftly return to action, just in time for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against South Africa and Benin in June.

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Taking to Instagram, he showcased his dedication and perseverance as he worked on the grass, signalling his determination to return to full fitness.

As the captain of the Super Eagles, Troost-Ekong has consistently demonstrated his prowess on the pitch, earning him a reputation as one of the country's most reliable performers.

Since his debut in 2015, he has made an impressive 71 appearances for the national team. His standout performance was during the 2023 AFCON tournament, where he scored three goals in six appearances and was awarded the Player of the Tournament.

Despite being hailed as one of Nigeria's greatest defenders of all time, Troost-Ekong remains humble, believing he still has much to achieve before being considered a legend.

“When I see players like that and the legacy they’ve left, you only dream about being able to be in that conversation. But I still think I have quite a way to go. I need to win an AFCON, that’s the baseline," he explained, as quoted by Soccernet.

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Troost Ekong recalls Lionel Messi’s epic Goal

Sports Brief reported that Troost-Ekong relived Messi's epic goal at the 2018 World Cup.

The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner scored a phenomenal goal against the Super Eagles in the group stages to send his country to the last 16.

Argentina was poor in Russia, but once again, the little man produced a magical and unforgettable moment.