Hull City manager Sergej Jakirovic has confirmed that Nigerian defender Semi Ajayi has suffered an injury and will miss several games.
The setback happened during the Tigers’ first Championship match of the season against Coventry City.
Ajayi, who joined the club this summer as a free agent, picked up a hamstring problem and is expected to return after the international break in September.
The news is a major worry for both Hull City and Nigeria, as the player was expected to play a key role this season.
Call for New Defender Before Window Closes
Speaking to local media, Jakirovic admitted he is already pushing the club’s chairman Acun Ilicali to sign a replacement before the transfer window shuts.
“The chairman will not be happy if I ask for another defender, but I will still ask,” he said with a smile. “It is my job to make sure the team is ready. If you do not ask, you do not get. So I must ask.”
The coach admitted that financial limits may make it hard for Hull to add another player but insisted the club needs more strength in defense to stay competitive in the Championship.
Nigeria Also Hit by the Injury News
Ajayi’s absence is not only a blow for Hull City but also for Nigeria’s national team.
The former Arsenal center back will miss the Super Eagles’ crucial World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and South Africa in September.
The qualifiers are important as Nigeria fights for a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Without Ajayi, Nigeria will have to depend on other defenders to hold the back line in these important games.
For now, Hull City must manage with the defenders already in the squad while hoping the board can secure one more signing before the transfer window ends.
Ajayi will focus on recovery with the aim of returning fully fit after the international break.
