Hull City head coach Sergej Jakirović has confirmed that Super Eagles defender Semi Ajayi will rejoin first-team training next week, marking a significant step in his recovery. The 32-year-old center-back has endured a frustrating spell on the sidelines after sustaining a hamstring injury during Nigeria’s third-place playoff victory against Egypt at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in January. His absence has forced the Tigers to navigate their last six competitive fixtures without his defensive leadership, but the latest medical update suggests a return to Championship action is now imminent.
Jakirović expressed his optimism regarding the defender’s progress as Hull City prepares for a crucial run of games in their push for the promotion playoffs. The Bosnian manager noted that while the medical staff monitored Ajayi’s rehabilitation closely over the past month, the player has finally reached the physical benchmarks required to integrate back into the squad. This news provides a timely boost for the East Yorkshire club, who have felt the void left by the experienced international during a demanding winter schedule.
“Semi Ajayi, next week he will start group training with us,” Jakirović was quoted by Hull City Live.
Ajayi’s journey with the Tigers began last summer when he arrived at the MKM Stadium as a free agent, ending a long-term association with West Bromwich Albion. Before his departure for international duty in Morocco, the former Rotherham United standout established himself as a cornerstone of Jakirović’s backline. Across 12 league appearances this season, he has demonstrated his aerial prowess and technical composure, notably netting one goal to help the club climb into the upper echelons of the Championship table.
As Hull City readies itself for a high-stakes encounter against Queens Park Rangers this Saturday, the coaching staff views Ajayi’s impending return as a vital component for the season’s final third. The defender’s wealth of experience, including over 170 appearances for West Brom, makes him an indispensable asset for a squad aiming to secure a Premier League return. Supporters expect the Nigerian international to undergo a short period of conditioning before he makes his official matchday return later this month.
