Watford fans hail Troost-Ekong after Salernitana unveiling

Encomiums have been pouring from Watford fans for defender, William Troost-Ekong, following his loan move to Italian Serie A side, Salernitana, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

Troost-Ekong is returning to Italy three years after joining Watford from Udinese, a move that saw him gain promotion with the club to the Premier League in 2021, before they were relegated again at the end of the 2021/2022 season.

According to reports, Watford agreed a loan move for Troost-Ekong to Salernitana till the end of the current campaign with a buy-back clause if they remain in the topflight as he will also reunite with former Udinese manager, Davide Nicola.

The Italian club unveiled the player on Tuesday after he confirmed his exit from the Championship side with an appreciation post on Monday night, which attracted lots of goodwill messages from the Hornets supporters.

“The moment has come for me to move on from Watford FC after 3 special seasons shared with everyone involved. From everyone at the restaurant, security workers, volunteers at the stadium to the medical & office staff and all the rest you have made my time what it was,” Ekong’s post reads in part.

A fan of the club, @VVitchfynder, recounted under the post how Ekong helped his son build confidence.

“All the best for your future. You were the first player my son met at the open day. He was so nervous and didn’t want to approach anyone. You were so kind and welcoming it gave him the courage to meet and speak to other players. A real credit to the club.”

One of the club’s supporters in Finland, Jason replied, “Sad to see you go, one of our own. Good luck will!”

“Truly one of our own, you will be remembered as a fighter, a leader, a mentor and a true Hornet. Salernitana’s gain is our loss but you’ve given us wonderful memories in return. Fly high Super Eagle Wishing you every happiness always,” another fan Natasha Wright wrote.

“Good luck for the future Will. Very sad to see such a passionate player with genuine love for our club leave.the majority of supporters could see what you brought to this club and always had your back,” wrote Allan Tarrant.

An acclaimed big Watford fan and season ticket holder, Rich, also recounted some of Ekong’s iconic goals and moments for the club.

“Top bloke, close to a leader as we have had for a long time, respected in the dressing room & scored a goal Vs Luton what more could we ask? You will be missed as a voice no doubt, your present coach is as surprised you are leaving as are many of us, says it all really! Good luck WTE.”

The Nigerian international has played 17 games for Watford this season across all competitions and also has a goal to his name in the Championship despite falling out of favor earlier in the season as the club continues to strive for a play-off position.

His new club, Salernitana are currently 16th on the Serie A table with 18 points from 19 games sitting six points above the relegation zone.