Na God - Finidi George gets huge boost as important AFCON 2023 star returns to training

The new Super Eagles manager, Finidi George, has officially started his reign.

Na God - Finidi George gets huge boost as important AFCON 2023 star returns to training

Izuchukwu Akawor 07:36 - 11.05.2024

Finidi George could have William Troost-Ekong available for the game against South Africa after he returned to first-team training.

In a major boost for the new Super Eagles manager, Finidi George, star defender William Troost-Ekong is set to be available for Nigeria's upcoming match against South Africa next month.

Troost-Ekong, who was named Player of the Tournament at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, has been sidelined since undergoing surgery following the continental showpiece in February. 

However, the 30-year-old has now returned to first-team training with his Greek club POAK, sharing the positive update on his Instagram with the caption "Na God."

AFCON 2023 stars give Finidi boost

The Super Eagles captain put in a series of outstanding performances at AFCON 2023, playing in six of Nigeria's seven matches and scoring three goals as the team reached the final. 

MVP Troost-Ekong (m) of Nigeria celebrates one of his goals at AFCON 2023.
MVP Troost-Ekong (m) of Nigeria celebrates one of his goals at AFCON 2023. |IMAGO

Despite sustaining an injury in the second group stage game against Ivory Coast, Troost-Ekong displayed incredible dedication and resilience as he played through the pain to lead and excel for the Super Eagles.

New manager Finidi George will be delighted to have his influential skipper back on the pitch training and potentially available for the crucial clash against South Africa next month. 

Troost-Ekong's return to fitness is a timely boost as the Super Eagles look to secure a positive result in the crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against rivals South Africa early next month.

With Troost-Ekong set to rejoin the squad, Finidi will be hoping the experienced defender can bring his AFCON form into the match against Bafana Bafana.

Nigeria vs Ghana
Super Eagles new coach Finidi George | Imago Finidi George made some tactical alterations in Nigeria's win over Ghana (Imago)

Nigeria aims to revive their World Cup hopes after a rather shaky start to the qualification campaign under former boss Jose Peseiro.

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