The NFF have paid a glowing tribute to William Troost-Ekong, who has quit the Super Eagles after a decade of distinguished service. Similarly, Victor Osimhen and Alex Iwobi have paid heartfelt tributes to Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong after the defender announced his retirement from international football, Soccernet.ng reports.

The NFF statement read in part: “Captain Troost-Ekong was a dedicated, selfless, and humble leader of the Super Eagles for so many years, having started his international journey in the year 2015. He served with gusto, zeal and patriotic fervour, and he bestrode the pitch with passion, pride, purpose and a commendable sense of duty. Even as just another member of the group, before he became the captain, Troost-Ekong was pleasant, disciplined, and ambitious, and he wore the green-and-white with so much joy, zest, and focus.”

Osimhen said of Troost-Ekong: “It’s been an honour sharing the pitch with you, skippo. Your guidance, humility, and professionalism pushed all of us to be better. Thank you for everything you’ve given to the team and Nigeria. Wishing you greatness ahead. You’ve earned it. Legend forever.”

Iwobi echoed the sentiment in an interview with SportyTV’s Kelechi, describing the retirement as an ’emotional moment’ inside the camp.

“Obviously, it is a sad one for us because he is a big part of our team. But at the end of the day I wish him well, he is a brother he has helped Nigeria and me,” Iwobi said. (The Nation)