Watford’s Troost-Ekong disappointed to miss Nigeria match

Watford centre back, William Troost-Ekong, has spoken of his disappointment at missing Nigeria’s World Cup qualifier at Cape Verde.

The Super Eagles continue their Qatar 2022 qualification campaign later, but Troost-Ekong and his Hornets teammate Peter Etebo are among eight British-based players who will not be taking part in the fixture.

The pair joined Leicester City duo Kelechi Iheanacho and Wilfred Ndidi, Everton’s Alex Iwobi, and Rangers duo Leon Balogun and Joe Aribo in returning to the UK over the weekend, due to Cape Verde being on the UK government’s red list.

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Speaking to BBC Sport Africa, the defender said the situation did not seem fair.

“We want to be part of the team and I feel like we are neglecting the team a bit by not travelling with them to Cape Verde,” said Troost-Ekong.

“It’s a difficult one because obviously it’s a rule that has been set by the UK government. But it’s not necessarily fair, because the situation in different countries like Italy or Spain or other leagues that some of the boys are coming from, is probably similar but they are then allowed to travel and play.