Former Watford and Birmingham City striker Troy Deeney has doubled down on his criticism of Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong, accusing the defender of insecurity after Nigeria’s 4-1 win over Gabon.

Troost-Ekong and Deeney were teammates at Watford during the 2020/21 Championship season, though they never shared the pitch.

The exchange escalated after CBS pundit Michael Lahoud questioned Ekong’s leadership, alleging the defender “only talks off the pitch.”

Leadership debate sparks tension

Lahoud argued that Ekong has not demonstrated on-field authority, describing him as a “social media leader.”

Deeney echoed the sentiment, insisting the centre-back lacks the “nastiness” required to push the Nigeria Football Federation on team welfare issues.

Troost-Ekong expressed disappointment after the Gabon win, saying Deeney could have contacted him privately before making such comments.

He referenced their past relationship at Watford and noted he once gifted Deeney a Nigeria jersey.

Deeney responds: ‘I don’t care’

Speaking on TalkSPORT, Deeney dismissed Ekong’s reaction and accused him of overcompensating.

Deeney said Ekong listing his achievements signalled insecurity, adding that the defender’s willingness to give post-match interviews validated Lahoud’s initial criticism. He maintained that his comments were truthful and not disrespectful.

According to Deeney, effective leadership requires a harder edge, something he claims Ekong did not display at Watford.

Focus shifts to DR Congo clash

Nigeria face DR Congo on Sunday at the Stade Prince Moulay Abdallah in Rabat, Morocco, with kick-off set for 8:00PM WAT.