Watford's Nigerian stars prepare for Qatar clash

Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong and the Nigerian trio of Maduka Okoye, Emmanuel Dennis, and Samuel Kalu are all set to achieve their dream of playing in Qatar this summer despite missing out on the 2022 FIFA World Cup ticket.

The players, who all play for relegated Premier League side Watford FC, will face the Qatari national team as part of their pre-season fixtures ahead of the 2022/23 season. 

Troost-Ekong and co narrowly missed out on qualification for the 2022 World Cup after failing to beat the Black Stars of Ghana during the final round of qualifiers in March.

According to a press statement on Watford's official website, the English Championship club will travel to Austria for a five-day pre-season training camp in July.

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On the final day of the training camp, the Hornets are scheduled to face the World Cup host nation, albeit in Austria, not Qatar. 

The statement read: "The Hornets will also be travelling to Austria for a training camp from July 5-10, with a friendly against the Qatar national team planned for the final day.

"Additional midweek fixtures may still be arranged, however the current pre-season schedule is as follows:

“Watford v Cambridge United - Saturday July 2, 1pm (Watford FC training ground, behind closed doors)

“Watford v Qatar - Sunday July 10, 1pm (Austria)

“Watford v Bolton Wanderers - Tuesday July 12, 3pm (Watford FC training ground, behind closed doors)

“Watford v Wycombe Wanderers - Saturday July 16, 1pm (Watford FC training ground, behind closed doors)

“Watford v Southampton - Saturday July 23, 3pm (Grosvenor Vale, Wealdstone FC)"

Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye is expected to be in goal for the Hornets after he joined up with the English side from Sparta Rotterdam following his winter transfer deal. 

The departure of erstwhile first-choice goalkeeper Ben Forster means the Nigerian international is expected to be installed as the new first-choice goalkeeper at Watford.

Forward Emmanuel Dennis is still the subject of numerous transfer rumours. West Ham United, Newcastle United, and Crystal Palace are all said to be interested in the 24-year-old who bagged 10 league goals and six (6) assists for the Hornets last season.

Troost-Ekong and Samuel Kalu are expected to stay with the Rob Edwards-led side as they seek immediate promotion from the English second-tier during the 2022/23 season.