Hull City manager Sergej Jakirovic has confirmed that Nigerian defender Semi Ajayi is back in contention for a return to action after spending over a month on the sidelines through injury, potentially providing a huge defensive boost for the Super Eagles ahead of October’s World Cup qualifiers, Footynaija.com reports.
Ajayi, who joined the Tigers on a free transfer in the summer, made an assured debut against Coventry City before succumbing to injury. The 30-year-old has since missed seven matches in all competitions, a spell during which Hull’s defensive frailties were laid bare.
Jakirovic’s side conceded 14 goals across six Championship games without him, with the tally rising to 17 following their disappointing Carabao Cup defeat to Wrexham last week. The Hull City boss was quick to point out Ajayi’s qualities as he confirmed the defender’s readiness for Tuesday’s clash with Preston North End.
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“For the last two weeks, he trained in full, very hard. So he’s one option to play these games,” Jakirovic told The Yorkshire Post. “What does he bring? Everything – speed, duels, a tall player in our box who cleared a lot of balls against Coventry. He’s very important.”
That importance extends beyond club football. For Nigeria, Ajayi’s timely recovery could ease concerns for head coach Eric Chelle, whose side looked far from convincing defensively during the last international break.
Ajayi, with his height, aerial strength and wealth of experience across the Championship and Premier League, could provide extra composure and add balance to a backline that appeared vulnerable in his absence.
In a period when the Super Eagles have suffered injury blows in other areas of the pitch, Ajayi’s return comes as a welcome boost for Chelle.
