Troost-Ekong Insists He’s Fit for Qualifiers Despite Being Dropped by Finidi

• William Troost-Ekong claims he is fit for Nigeria’s World Cup qualifiers after recovering from a long-term injury since February
• Finidi George released his final squad for next month’s qualifiers without the Super Eagles vice-captain in the team
• Nigeria will face South Africa and Benin in two must-win games for the Super Eagles to keep alive their World Cup hopes

William Troost-Ekong has declared he is fit despite being excluded from Nigeria’s final squad for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against South Africa and Benin.

The 31-year-old Super Eagles vice-captain underwent surgery in February after picking up a leg injury during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory where he led Nigeria to win a silver medal.

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According to Score Nigeria, Troost-Ekong, who only just returned to full training after missing several months out due to his surgery, claims he is fit and available for matches.

Finidi George had named Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, and Nigeria-based Sadiq Ismael as the three recognized central defenders in his 23-man squad for the World Cup qualifiers.

Nigeria will host South Africa at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on June 7, before traveling to Ivory Coast for their away game against Benin on June 11.

Troost-Ekong backs Finidi to succeed

Meanwhile, Troost-Ekong has stated that Finidi's appointment as Super Eagles coach is a step in the right direction and has hailed the role given to the former Real Betis midfielder, All Nigeria Soccer reports.

The PAOK defender noted that the last three winners of the Africa Cup of Nations - Algeria, Senegal, and Ivory Coast - were led by local coaches and believes Finidi will achieve the same feat with Nigeria.

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Finidi will take charge of his first competitive matches as Super Eagles when Nigeria tackles South Africa and Benin in two must-win games in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers next month.

Troost-Ekong returns to full training

Earlier, Sports Brief reported that Troost-Ekong has made a timely recovery after rupturing his biceps femoris in his right leg at the AFCON, which required the Super Eagles captain to undergo surgery.

The PAOK defender was expected to miss the rest of the season after going under the knife at the end of the tourney, but he has miraculously recovered in time for the close of the season.