Hull City have received positive news on Super Eagles defender Semi Ajayi after checks showed that he has avoided a serious hamstring injury sustained during the club’s impressive Premier League victory over Manchester United.
Ajayi is expected to be available for Hull’s trip to Coventry City on Saturday after coming through subsequent medical assessments without further problems.
The 32-year-old was withdrawn in the 64th minute of Hull’s 2-0 victory at the MKM Stadium after reporting discomfort in his hamstring. His early departure initially raised concerns about his fitness for the next league fixture.
However, the defender has since been cleared alongside teammate Noah Mendy, who was also substituted after suffering an adductor problem.
Hull manager Sergej Jakirovic had explained after the match that the defensive changes were forced by the players’ respective complaints.
“Ajayi was complaining about his hamstring, and Nobel about his adductor,” Jakirovic said.
Ajayi had already made a major contribution before leaving the pitch, opening the scoring in the 17th minute as Hull secured a memorable win over Manchester United.
The Nigerian defender reacted quickest to a rebound after United goalkeeper Senne Lammens had denied Oli McBurnie from a corner, giving Hull an early advantage.
Mendy later added Hull’s second goal before the interval as the newly promoted side completed a statement victory over United.
The result marked Hull’s return to the Premier League after a nine-year absence and gave Ajayi an especially memorable afternoon.
Speaking after the game, the Super Eagles defender described his goal as an important reward for Hull’s strong start.
He said the goal gave the team confidence after they had already created opportunities without converting them, while also putting them in a position to build on their early momentum.
Hull subsequently protected their advantage despite sustained pressure from United, with goalkeeper Konstantinos Tzolakis making several important saves.
With Ajayi now cleared of a significant hamstring problem, Jakirovic is expected to have the Nigerian defender available as Hull prepare for another Premier League fixture against Coventry.