The Super Eagles of Nigeria have appointed midfielder Wilfred Ndidi as their new captain following the retirements of Ahmed Musa and William Troost Ekong from international football.
Ndidi takes over the armband after previously serving as stand in captain on several occasions when Musa and Troost Ekong were unavailable.
With the Kano Pillars general manager and the Al Khoolood defender now retired from the national team, Ndidi has officially been entrusted with the leadership role.
Speaking on his new responsibility, Ndidi said, “It’s a huge responsibility, and with the help of the players, everything will go smoothly.”
Looking ahead to the Africa Cup of Nations and the team’s objectives, he added, “I have had conversations with the players, trying to make them understand the reason why we are here. We also need support from the staff and to have conversations about what’s ahead. It is very important that everyone is on the same page.”
Ndidi also paid tribute to his predecessor, William Troost Ekong, acknowledging his leadership and influence in the team.
“He is a great leader, he speaks for the team, he stands for the team. I admire him a lot. How outspoken he is. He is one person everyone looks up to. He is an amazing guy. I have learnt a lot from him. We spoke a couple of weeks ago, still chipped in some advice, i feel he is still part of the team. He is going to be missed.”
