Hull City Coach Confident Semi Ajayi Will Regain Form With Super Eagles

Hull City head coach Sergej Jakirović has backed Super Eagles defender Semi Ajayi to use Nigeria’s upcoming World Cup qualifiers as a springboard to full fitness.

Semi Ajayi, who only recently recovered from a hamstring injury, is expected to join the Nigerian squad today ahead of crucial matches against Lesotho and the Benin Republic.

The 31-year-old centre-back had been sidelined for over a month before making his return in Hull’s 1-0 Championship win over Sheffield Unitedthe on Saturday.

Although he was introduced late in the match, Ajayi’s lack of sharpness was evident when he conceded a penalty just three minutes after coming on, fouling Danny Ings inside the area.

Fortunately for Hull, goalkeeper Ivor Pandur produced a vital save to deny Harrison Burrows from the spot and preserve all three points.

Despite that nervy cameo, Jakirović believes the international window offers Ajayi the perfect chance to build his rhythm and return stronger for both club and country. Speaking to Hull Live, the Croatian tactician said:

“I’m OK because you cannot stop them. 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, and Liam as well. Liam is now OK, almost 85 minutes (played in the last two games). He played two games, so it’s good.”

Hull will be watching closely, hoping Ajayi comes back sharper for their next league clash against Birmingham City.

Source: Naijanews