Semi Ajayi set for return after AFCON 2025 hamstring injury
Hull City assistant manager Dean Holden has confirmed that Super Eagles defender Semi Ajayi is back in the squad ahead of their Championship clash against Ipswich Town, describing his return as a major boost in the Tigers’ promotion push.
Ajayi has been sidelined since suffering a hamstring injury during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
The 32-year-old defender has not featured in the Championship since returning from international duty.
Providing a squad update after Hull’s recent victory over Portsmouth, Holden confirmed the Nigerian centre-back has resumed training and is ready to rejoin the group.
“We’re fine, we’ve got a couple of bumps and niggles from the weekend,” Holden told Hull Live. “Everybody’s come through unscathed, and we’ll welcome Semi back into the squad, which is a big boost for us.”
The assistant boss emphasized just how long Ajayi has been absent and how significant his return could be at this stage of the campaign.
“He’s been out for a decent amount of time since that AFCON game. He’s not had loads of training, but trained again this morning (Monday), looks fine, and he’ll come back in, so that’s a big boost.”
Ajayi, who joined Hull City A.F.C. as a free agent last summer, brings experience and physical presence to the Tigers’ backline.
His return arrives at a crucial moment as Hull continue their push for promotion from the Championship. With the season entering a decisive phase, defensive stability could prove vital in their bid to climb into the playoff places.
For Ajayi, the immediate focus will be regaining match sharpness and rhythm ahead of the upcoming international break – and potentially reclaiming a regular starting berth both at club level and with Nigeria.
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