'It's my turn' – Troost-Ekong reflects on captaining Nigeria after learning from Enyeama, Mikel, Musa

William Troost-Ekong has spoken about his decade-long journey with the Super Eagles, saying it is now his time to lead after years of learning under some of the country's most respected captains.

Born in Haarlem, the Totttenham Hotspur academy graduate featured in a few games for Netherlands youth teams before switching his international allegiance to Nigeria, where his father hails from. 

When William Troost-Ekong made his senior debut for Nigeria in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Chad in 2015, it was Vincent Enyeama who wore the captain's armband.

In his second appearance for the three-time African champions, the leadership mantle had passed to forward Ahmed Musa.

By the time the Super Eagles took to the global stage at the 2018 Fifa World Cup in Russia, Troost-Ekong had cemented his place in the squad. 

The then-Bursaspor defender featured in every minute of Nigeria's group stage campaign, while captaincy duties were handled by Chelsea legend John Obi Mikel.

Troost-Ekong acknowledged the influence of legendary teammates Enyeama, Mikel and Musa in preparing him for the role of Super Eagles captain.

"The two things are synonymous. I am someone who takes pride in helping people and taking the front row for all the stuff that we are doing now," Troost-Ekong told Premium Times. 

"So, with the team it has been a journey together to get there

"Of course, I've had some great leaders before, great captains I learned from but now it's my turn and also my responsibility. I try to do my best, and that's all I can do."

Troost-Ekong admitted that representing Nigeria remains a source of immense pride as he reflected on the memorable highs and painful near-misses that have shaped his international career.

"It has been a journey. Ten years is not easy, especially with such a dynamic team as the Super Eagles.

"It's still such a big honour for me to wear the jersey every time I have a chance and to be the captain of the team is something very special.

"We've experienced some great things, tournaments, getting so close of course in the last Afcon, and I'm really looking forward to some more years ahead, starting with the World Cup qualifiers and of course the Afcon at the end of the year."

Troost-Ekong was the standout player as Nigeria won silver at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, earning a place in the Team of the Tournament and winning the Most Valuable Player accolade.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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