Hull coach fears Ajayi fitness

Hull City manager Sergej Jakirovic has expressed concern over the fitness of Nigeria defender Semi Ajayi ahead of the international break, as the club prepares to release several key players for national team assignments, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

As one of the most experienced figures in the squad, Ajayi is set to join Nigeria for the upcoming fixtures against Iran and Jordan, raising concerns within the club about his workload and recovery.

Jakirovic acknowledged the benefits of the break but stressed that player fitness remains the priority, explaining that while rest could help, the risk of injuries during international duty cannot be ignored.

“It’s good we have a two-week break,” he told the BBC.

“(But) We have eight international players, and I hope they get some minutes, but it’s more important they stay healthy.”

The manager also highlighted the logistical challenges facing his squad, noting that several players will be travelling across continents, which could further complicate their condition upon return.

“We may have some problems when they return from the international games – Ivor Pandur (Croatia) is in South America, Semi Ajayi (Nigeria ) is in Jordan, and Liam Miller is with Canada in Toronto, so that could be a problem, but we will see when they come back,” he added.

Hull’s push for promotion to the Premier League means the club can ill afford further injury setbacks, particularly to key players like Ajayi, whose experience and defensive stability have been vital when available.

While Jakirovic acknowledged the importance of international football to his players, he emphasised the balance clubs must strike during such periods.

“I understand the World Cup is coming, and the players want to be on their list, and it is a big dream for them. We are proud of our international players,” he said.

With crucial fixtures ahead in the race for promotion, Hull will be hoping their Nigerian defender returns from international duty fit and available, as any further setbacks could prove costly in the closing stages of the season.

The Championship side, currently fifth in the table, defeated Sheffield Wednesday 3-1 before the league pauses for two weeks, but Jakirovic admitted he is uneasy about the potential physical toll on his squad, particularly those travelling long distances.

Hull have endured a season disrupted by injuries, and Ajayi’s situation remains a source of particular concern given his recent return from a recurring hamstring problem.

The defender has played just two full matches since January and is still regaining full fitness after suffering multiple setbacks last year, including an injury during Nigeria’s third-place match against Egypt at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.