William Troost-Ekong Attends 2024 Africa Academy Stars tournament kickoff, declares he is fit

Super Eagles vice-captain and AFCON 2023 MVP William Troost-Ekong attended the opening of the 2024 Africa Academy Stars tournament in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on May 31, 2024. The Greece Super League Champion, in Uyo for the launch of his Foundation on June 2, visited the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium to address over 700 young participants.

Troost-Ekong encouraged the young players to stay focused and aspire to become future football stars. He shared, “I am very happy to be here to see you kids playing football and enjoying yourselves. I was once a child like you and had the same dream. I see among you future Super Eagles and great footballers. Just keep playing and working hard. I wish you all the best.”

After his speech, Ekong joined a match between Full Life Academy and Island Star Academy, scoring a goal to the delight of the kids and the crowd.

In addition to his activities in Uyo, William Troost-Ekong declared his fitness and readiness to represent Nigeria if called upon by manager Finidi George for the upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers against South Africa and Benin Republic.

Troost-Ekong, who led Nigeria to the AFCON 2023 final, was a surprising omission from the 23-man squad announced by new manager Finidi George for the crucial double-header. The decision raised eyebrows, as it was widely assumed the defender was still recovering from an injury sustained during the continental tournament.

In a recent Meet and Greet with the media in Lagos, Troost-Ekong clarified his current status and addressed the confusion surrounding his absence. “They predicted it would take three to four months for me to come back, I came back in nine weeks,” Troost-Ekong stated on Thursday night.

“I am match fit; I didn’t play in the last games (for PAOK) but that’s up to the coach to decide. But I was back with the team training two weeks before the end.”

Troost-Ekong emphasised his readiness to support the team if needed. “I am fit now, so if anything happens to the current squad (Super Eagles), Finidi George has my full support. But I can thank God that I am back fit again,” he added.