Super Eagles midfielder Wilfred Ndidi has been appointed vice-captain of Turkish giants Beşiktaş, the club announced in an official statement on Friday.

Ndidi, who joined Beşiktaş during the summer transfer window, will serve as deputy to Turkish international Orkun Kökçü, who has been named the new team captain.

The decision, approved by club president Serdal Island and the Board of Directors, follows recommendations from the coaching staff based on the players’ leadership and influence both on and off the pitch.

“Following the recommendation of our technical team and considering players’ effectiveness and leadership, Orkun Kökçü has been appointed first captain and Wilfred Ndidi second captain,” the club said in a statement.

The club also expressed appreciation to outgoing captain Necip Uysal and vice-captain Mert Günok for their years of service and leadership.

Ndidi’s appointment marks another milestone in his resurgent career since leaving Leicester City, where he was one of the club’s longest-serving players. His leadership qualities and experience with Nigeria’s national team, where he serves as stand-in captain, have reportedly impressed Beşiktaş’s coaching staff and teammates alike.

The new captaincy duo will officially assume their roles when Beşiktaş host Gençlerbirliği S.K. at the Vodafone Park on Saturday, October 18, in Matchday 8 of the Turkish Super Lig.

Beşiktaş currently sit sixth in the standings with 13 points from seven matches, as they look to close the gap on early leaders Fenerbahçe and Galatasaray.