Troost-Ekong calls for proper structure to help Super Eagles excel

Former Super Eagles star William Troost-Ekong has called for a robust structure to be put in place for the Nigerian national team to perform well on the international stage. Nigeria has not qualified for the FIFA World Cup in the past two tournaments and started the qualifiers for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations with a weak showing.

The three-time African champions narrowly beat Madagascar 2-1 at home, but were defeated 3-0 by Guinea-Bissau in their next match. Troost-Ekong stated that consistency is needed from the players, coaches, and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). "We are at a point where we need to see some consistency I think from the top down.

From federation to coach to this group of players," he told beIN SPORTS. "I think the talent is there in abundance. What we see now is still some uncertainty about how things are prepared for the team." Troost-Ekong praised the appointment of Eric Chelle to a long-term role, noting his expertise in developing young players. "Appointing Eric Chelle for the long term has been a great thing to do.

He’s also in charge of the Olympic team. He understands the young players coming through." The former captain emphasized the need for a solid foundation around the players to enable Nigeria to compete consistently at the highest level. "That consistency is number one. But I do think the team needs the structure and the backbone, and we can't just rely on talent alone," Troost-Ekong added.

"I think we've managed to cover a lot of gaps over the years. But now, over time, those things will get exposed. They need to have the right structure around it."