Al-Kholood manager Des Buckingham has lauded William Troost-Ekong’s influence at the club following his departure, describing the former Nigeria captain as an irreplaceable leader on and off the pitch.

Troost-Ekong, who joined the Saudi club from PAOK in the summer of 2024, secured a move to Qatari club Al Ahli SC in the January window. 

Speaking on his exit, Buckingham admitted that while the club will recruit a player to fill the void left in the squad. 

"You can't replace William and I am not looking to replace William as a player or a person. There will be somebody that comes in to replace him as a player, " Buckingham told reporters at a press conference.

He also hailed Ekong as the finest captain he has worked with at the club, citing the defender’s immense impact both on and off the pitch.

"What I mean is, William is by far the best leader of people that I ever had the pleasure of working with at this football club.

The Al-Kholood manager highlighted Ekong’s significant role in helping him settle into life at the club, crediting the former Udinese defender for shaping the team’s culture and environment. 

"He has been a really big part of helping me settle at the club and also making sure the things I have just spoken about with the culture, the environment," he added. 

Buckingham concluded by reiterating Ekong’s lasting impact, insisting the club will feel his absence beyond the football pitch.

"He has helped lead and bring the players along that journey. I don't think we could replace William," he said.  

The former Watford defender enjoyed a successful spell at the club, playing a key role in helping them retain their Saudi Pro League status.

Adeyemi Adewale