Super Eagles captain, William Troost-Ekong believes Alex Iwobi’s contributions to Nigerian football have cemented his legacy as one of the national team’s finest players.

Despite the ups and downs, the midfielder’s journey with the Super Eagles has been marked by loyalty, resilience, and consistent effort.

Iwobi, who made his debut for the Super Eagles in 2015, is one of the longest-serving members of the current squad.

Alex Iwobi [Image: Getty]

Dubbed Nigeria’s “Golden Boy,” Iwobi has also been influential in being a model to several dual-nationality players to commit to representing Nigeria on the international stage.

Despite his contributions, the versatile midfielder has faced criticism in recent years for perceived inconsistent performances.

During the last Africa Cup of Nations, Iwobi even had to disable his social media accounts due to a barrage of targeted abuse from fans.

Frank Magri competes for the ball with Alex Iwobi ,during the CAF Africa Cup of Nations round of 16 match between Nigeria and Cameroon. (Photo by MB Media/Getty Images)

At a pre-match press conference ahead of Nigeria’s final AFCON qualifier against Rwanda, Troost-Ekong defended his teammate.

“I think the biggest motivation for us is seeing great players like Alex Iwobi,” Troost-Ekong said.

“He’s been with the national team for a long time, 80 something caps, he was there at my second camp and I was trying to use him as I think a top role model for any player, someone who has played in the Premier League throughout his career.”

Alev Iwobi. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)

Troost-Ekong continued, “He has nothing to prove, always comes here on time, doesn’t open his mouth, works hard, has been criticized heavily by people also sitting in this room,.

“But, he is someone that will go down as a real great when he finishes playing.”

The Super Eagles captain also called for more appreciation of the team’s efforts, adding:

“Sometimes you have to appreciate the players we have here and you know all these boys are working hard, they want to make everyone proud.”