Udinese star William Troost-Ekong faces a ban from playing for the Super Eagles after falling out with top Nigeria Football Federation officials.



In a series of tweets by BBC journalist Osasu Obayiuwana, he revealed that Troost-Ekong's future with the Super Eagles is hanging in the balance and it has to do with his character which is upsetting the very top of the Nigerian Federation, who see him as a disruptive influence and has become increasing arrogant and disrespectful.

The Super Eagles were involved in a bonus row with the Nigerian Federation during the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations and the Udinese defender was one of the chief protagonists as the players strongly pressed for their demands.

"A lot of the problems that we had with the players, during the AFCON 2019, were not helped by his behaviour,'' the top NFF official said.

''He played a huge role in stirring up the players and upsetting the atmosphere in camp. If not careful, he could face a ban from the Super Eagles.''

Another top official added : ''He shows little respect to officials and exhibits no decorum at functions, where he is known to be contemptuous. We are at the end of our rope and we may have to take drastic action against him''.


A member of the Super Eagles technical staff also corroborated this: "When Troost-Ekong came to the team, he was one of the best-behaved players in the team.

''But he hardly shows respect for anyone now. He's a big-shot player in Serie A with Udinese.

''I would not lose any sleep if he was to lose his starting shirt. He thinks he has become so important that no one can talk to him. Or correct his actions. He needs to be taken down a peg or two and regain some humility."

Meanwhile, Super Eagles coach Gernot Rohr has leapt to the defence of one of his key players and stressed that Troost-Ekong has never given him any difficulties.

The German said to Obayiuwana in France : ''I have not had any complaints about Troost-Ekong, so I am surprised to hear them from you. I have never had any problems with William. He has always behaved properly, in my opinion''.

Dutch-born Troost-Ekong made his Super Eagles debut in September 2015 and captained the side in friendlies against Poland, Egypt and Ukraine.