Super Eagles vice-captain William Troost-Ekong has expressed his admiration for newly appointed Super Eagles head coach Finidi George, as reported by Soccernet.ng.
The former Ajax star, who initially served as the interim coach for the Super Eagles before being appointed permanently, was chosen from a pool of applicants that included Emmanuel Amuneke, following Jose Peseiro’s departure after his contract expired with the NFF.
Troost-Ekong, reflecting on his 22 months under Peseiro and the transition to George, described Finidi as a legend of the game.
“George Finidi is someone who is a legend. In African football, and Nigerian football, even here in Greece, whenever ex-Nigerian players are mentioned, Finidi’s name always comes up. Especially growing up in Holland, just outside Amsterdam, for someone who played so much for Ajax and achieved so much there, he’s someone I look up to and feel very connected to,” Troost-Ekong remarked.
Finidi’s impact at Ajax was immediate, contributing four goals in 27 games to secure the Eredivisie title, with continued success over the next two seasons.
He then moved to Spain, joining Real Betis, where his goal-scoring prowess remained consistent, including a memorable performance in the Copa del Rey final against FC Barcelona.
Troost-Ekong also praised Finidi’s humility, despite his impressive achievements, noting his recent success with Enyimba in winning the league.
“He is always very humble, too humble for what he has achieved. Everyone recognizes the work he did for Enyimba last year when he won the league. So, for him to now get the chance to be the interim head coach [now the full-time head coach], I am very happy to see that. He’s a great guy,” Troost-Ekong added.
The Super Eagles are gearing up for their first game under George’s management as they prepare for their World Cup qualifiers against South Africa and Benin Republic.
Troost-Ekong, who is nearing a quick recovery from a successful surgery following an injury sustained during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, is eager to return to action for Nigeria.