The pinnacle coach of the Tremendous Eagles, Eric Chelle, has stated he was solely doing his job after leaving out Troost-Ekong in opposition to Rwanda on Saturday.
Troost-Ekong, who normally wears the captain’s armband, was benched for the essential 2026 World Cup qualifier in Uyo, Akwa Ibom.
Chelle began 20-year-old Benjamin Fredrick in central defence alongside Calvin Bassey.
This meant it was Wilfred Ndidi who led the three-time African champions out.
Chelle ultimately introduced Troost-Ekong on as a late substitute, as Nigeria defeated the Amavubi 1-0.
When requested by the media about his resolution, Chelle replied: “I don’t wish to clarify myself; that is my alternative as a coach, and I respect and consider in all my gamers.
“That is my job. If we win, everyone will probably be glad, and if we don’t, they’ll complain, however that is my alternative.”
