William Troost-Ekong reveals the key thing Slaven Bilic has brought to Watford | OneFootball

Watford defender William Troost-Ekong has said that Slaven Bilic’s experience has stood out so far when discussing the qualities the Croatian has brought to the Watford dressing room.

The Nigerian international was largely out of favour under former boss Rob Edwards, making just two appearances and one Championship start under the 39-year-old.

However, under Bilic, Troost-Ekong’s fortunes have changed, becoming a regular starter since returning from an injury that saw him miss the first two matches under the new boss, and even skippering the side on a number of occasions.

When asked what quality Bilic brings to the squad, the 29-year-old was clear in his response.

“The first thing that comes to mind when I think of him is experience,” Troost-Ekong explained, via Watford club media.

“Working with him for seven weeks or so – we’ve all seen that – and it’s what we needed.

“He doesn’t try to do anything over the top or re-invent football, he knows what works for him and looks at the team to try and put everyone in a position to perform. There’s a lot of confidence coming with results, everyone believes in him and his playing style, and we can see the benefits when it works.

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“We’ve had glimpses of form but not enough all the time, and those glimpses are turning into spells.

“I’m very confident in the group of players we have here, and I think the players really like working with the Head Coach. The most important thing is to stay in the mix, and get results even when we’re not playing well.”

Watford sit fourth as the Championship pauses for the World Cup break.

The Hornets next face Hull City next month when league action gets back underway.

The Verdict

These comments from William Troost-Ekong are rather insightful.

We know he was out of favour under former boss Rob Edwards, and the fact he points to experience as being a crucial asset for Bilic, something Edwards did not have, is interesting to say the least.

Not only that, but he also says Bilic isn’t trying to do anything over the top or re-invent football, which could, again, be construed as negatives of Edwards, as he had a clear way of playing and seemingly wanted that to be implemented.

All things said, though, it’s undeniable that Bilic has had a positive impact at Vicarage Road, and even more so on Troost-Ekong’s own playing time. After some good performances in recent weeks, the 29-year-old doesn’t look to be leaving the Watford line up anytime soon.