Besiktas name Ndidi as new vice-captain

Super Eagles stand-in skipper Wilfred Ndidi has been appointed vice-captain of Turkish giants Beşiktaş, the club confirmed in an official statement on Friday, Sport360NG reports.

The Nigerian midfielder will assist newly named captain Orkun Kökçü, who takes over the armband from longtime skipper Necip Uysal. Goalkeeper Mert Günok, who previously served as deputy, has also been relieved of his leadership duties.

“With the decision of our President Serdal Island and the Board of Directors, adjustments have been made to the captaincy structure of our first team,” the statement read. “Following recommendations from the technical staff and an evaluation of players’ influence on the pitch, Orkun Kökçü has been appointed first captain, with Wilfred Ndidi serving as second captain.”

Beşiktaş thanked Uysal and Günok for their service and leadership, while wishing Kökçü and Ndidi success in their new roles.

The pair will lead the team for the first time on Saturday, October 18, when Beşiktaş, currently sixth in the Turkish Super Lig with 13 points from seven games, welcome Gençlerbirliği to Istanbul for Matchday 8.