Hull City manager Sergej Jakirovic has subtly urged Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle to hand Semi Ajayi valuable minutes during Nigeria’s upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho and Benin Republic, Footynaija.com reports.
Ajayi, who only recently returned from a hamstring injury, has been gradually reintegrated into Hull’s setup, featuring for just eight minutes against Sheffield United on his return to action.
Despite his limited game time, Chelle included the experienced centre-back in Nigeria’s 23-man list for the crucial October fixtures, a decision Hull boss Jakirovic has welcomed.
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Speaking after his side’s narrow 1–0 victory over Sheffield United on Saturday, the Bosnian tactician expressed full support for Ajayi’s call-up, emphasizing the importance of international football in helping players regain rhythm and confidence.
“I’m OK because you cannot stop them,” Jakirovic told Hull Live.
“I know that next year is the World Cup, so when it’s the World Cup, everyone is buzzing. I hope he (Ajayi) will play something there because he needs it.”
Ajayi missed Nigeria’s last international window due to injury but is now available for selection as the Super Eagles aim to climb from third place in Group C.
The 31-year-old’s return represents a timely boost for Chelle, who will rely on the defender’s experience and leadership at the back in what are must-win encounters.
Jakirovic also expressed hopes that Ajayi, alongside teammate Liam Millar, would return from international duty fully fit, with Hull preparing for their next Championship outing against Birmingham City after the break.
“I hope they all will play something — Semi (Ajayi) and Liam (Millar) — and they will return healthy,” he added.
Ajayi himself will be itching to contribute for the Super Eagles in the upcoming games against Lesotho and Benin having missed out on the Rwanda and South Africa games in September.
At this point though, Nigeria will need two statement wins and plenty of luck with results elsewhere in this final round of qualifying matches to clinch Group C’s World Cup ticket.
