Former Premier League striker Troy Deeney has expressed doubts over William Troost-Ekong’s leadership style following the Super Eagles’ training boycott in protest of unpaid bonuses by the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF).
The Nigerian national team was scheduled to hold its first full training session on Tuesday ahead of Thursday’s World Cup playoff clash against Gabon, but the players, led by their captain, refused to train until their grievances were addressed.
Ekong later announced on social media that the issue had been resolved and that the team had resumed training.
The situation became a hot topic during CBS’s Golazo show, where analyst Michael Lahoud criticized Ekong’s handling of the protest, claiming he didn’t show enough authority in leading his teammates.
Deeney, who played alongside Ekong at Watford, partly agreed, describing the Al Khoolood defender as “too nice” to lead a forceful stand against the federation.
“I agree with the Ekong part. I don’t think he’s the one who’ll be breaking down doors to make things happen,” Deeney said.
“He’s a good guy, a good person, but in times like this, you need that nasty person. That one who’s going to be like, ‘You’re not training; you’re not moving.’”
Deeney added that the ongoing off-field drama was disappointing, especially ahead of such a crucial match.
“I just think it’s a huge shame that it’s the World Cup qualifier and we’re talking about off-the-field stuff again. It’s not the first time, nor the 50th, and that’s a shame from Nigeria.”
While the issue appears to be resolved, the incident once again highlights the recurring financial disputes that have long plagued Nigerian football.
The Super Eagles will hope to put the controversy behind them as they shift focus to Thursday’s decisive World Cup playoff against Gabon, with fans eager to see strong leadership and unity on the pitch.
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