Nigeria international Semi Ajayi says he is steadily rediscovering his rhythm after returning from injury, expressing optimism about contributing to Hull City A.F.C. during the decisive final phase of the season.
The experienced defender recently completed his second full match since recovering from a hamstring problem suffered earlier this year while representing Nigeria national football team at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Speaking about his progress, Ajayi noted that playing consecutive full matches has helped him regain confidence and match fitness after weeks on the sidelines.
“I am feeling really good. It was my second 90 minutes, so I am getting back into the full swing of things and looking forward to pushing for the rest of the season,” he said.
The centre-back recently featured for the entire match as Hull City suffered a 3–0 defeat against West Bromwich Albion F.C. in the EFL Championship.
The contest proved challenging for the Tigers, who were reduced to ten men after Charlie Hughes received a red card, while captain Lewie Coyle was forced off with an injury before the interval.
Reflecting on the defeat, Ajayi admitted the result was frustrating given the stage of the campaign and the importance of securing points.
“It is disappointing at this stage of the season. Three points are massive, so to miss out today is not what we planned for,” he said.
The defender believed the match could have unfolded differently if Hull had taken their early chances.
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According to him, the visitors created several opportunities when the score was still level but failed to capitalise before conceding the opening goal.
“At nil-nil we had two or three really good chances to score. We didn’t take them and then they went one-nil up, which changed the game. In this league you have to take your opportunities and limit the chances you give away,” Ajayi added.
Despite the setback, the Nigerian international credited West Brom for making the most of the circumstances.
“Fair play to them. They have a lot of quality in their squad and they capitalised on our misfortune with the red card and the injury. It just wasn’t our day.”
Ajayi’s recent return follows a lengthy absence after he sustained the hamstring injury during Nigeria’s third-place playoff clash against the Egypt national football team.
The defender had played a prominent role in Nigeria’s campaign, helping the Super Eagles secure a bronze medal and even scoring in the team’s opening victory over Tanzania national football team, a performance that earned him the Man of the Match award.
During his recovery, Ajayi missed several Championship fixtures, including matches against Preston North End F.C., Swansea City A.F.C., Blackburn Rovers F.C., Watford F.C., Bristol City F.C., Queens Park Rangers F.C., Derby County F.C. and Portsmouth F.C..
He eventually returned to action in Hull City’s meeting with Millwall F.C. and has since started two of the club’s last three matches as he works his way back to peak condition.
Looking ahead, Ajayi is already focused on helping the Tigers bounce back when they face Sheffield Wednesday F.C. at the MKM Stadium before the March international break.
“We are looking forward to being back in front of our fans. There is no easy game in this league, so we won’t be taking it lightly,” he said.
With his fitness improving and the season approaching its climax, Ajayi will be aiming to rediscover his best form as Hull City continue their pursuit of a place in the Championship play-offs.
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