Troy Deeney Questions Troost-Ekong’s Leadership Edge Amid Super Eagles’ Bonus Row
Written by Alonge Akinlolu on 13 — 11
Former Watford forward Troy Deeney has cast doubt on the leadership strength of Nigeria’s captain, William Troost-Ekong, suggesting the defender might lack the hard edged attitude required to steer the Super Eagles through turbulent moments.
Speaking on BBC’s The Monday Night Club, Deeney who shared the dressing room with Troost Ekong during their time at Watford described the Nigeria skipper as “a good lad” but “not nasty enough” for the kind of strong willed leadership national teams often need.
“I don’t think he’s the one kicking doors down and demanding what must be done,” Deeney said. “At this level, you sometimes need that aggressive personality who says, ‘No, we’re not training until this is sorted.’”
His comments come in the wake of a player strike over unpaid bonuses that momentarily disrupted the Super Eagles’ camp before their crucial World Cup qualifying clash against Gabon. Troost Ekong later confirmed the issue had been resolved, but the episode once again exposed the team’s off field struggles.
Deeney lamented that such distractions continue to overshadow Nigeria’s ambitions on the global stage.
“It’s disappointing,” he added. “This should be a huge moment for them, yet we’re talking about problems away from the pitch instead of football.”
Troost-Ekong, who has been a reliable presence for Nigeria in defense and leadership, now faces renewed scrutiny not over his performance, but his perceived intensity as captain in moments that demand more fire than finesse.
