Super Eagles skipper William Troost-Ekong has moved to calm fears over Ademola Lookman’s readiness for Saturday’s World Cup qualifier against Rwanda, Footynaija.com reports.
Troost-Ekong is convinced that the former Leicester City and RB Leipzig forward is even more motivated than ever to power the Super Eagles to victory over the Amavubi.
Lookman endured a frustrating summer after trying to engineer a move away from Atalanta.
The 27-year-old submitted a transfer request but no deal materialised, leaving him sidelined so far this Serie A season. His lack of competitive minutes had sparked doubts over his sharpness heading into international duty.
Troost-Ekong, however, dismissed any concerns after watching Lookman in camp this week.
“The summer transfer window is always particular when you have a team full of talented players like we always do in Nigeria,” Troost-Ekong told reporters.
“There’s no wonder there is going to be movement. Players making the step up. Also making a small reference to Ademola Lookman, I think all of us have really followed and supported him. The coach said he’s the best player in Africa.
“With what I have seen these days, he’s even more motivated. The Lookman that we know, he’s even consistently motivated, worked and trained hard.”
Nigeria head into the clash sitting fourth in Group C, making victory against Rwanda crucial to reigniting their qualification campaign. For Troost-Ekong, the presence of a fired-up Lookman could prove decisive.
