Hull City centre-back Semi Ajayi is nearing full fitness after recovering from a hamstring injury sustained while representing Nigeria at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, assistant coach Dean Holden has confirmed.
Ajayi was forced to withdraw from the continental tournament last month due to the injury, which has subsequently sidelined him for Hull City’s last seven matches in all competitions. Holden provided an update on the 32-year-old’s rehabilitation, stating that progress remains on schedule. “Semi (Ajayi) is going well, but again, not back in the team training just yet,” Holden was quoted as saying, indicating the defender is in the latter stages of recovery but has not yet resumed full group sessions.
The absence of the experienced defender has been notable for the Tigers, who signed Ajayi on a free transfer last summer after his departure from West Bromwich Albion. During his first season at the club, he made 12 league appearances and scored one goal, establishing himself as a key figure in the defensive lineup before the international setback.
Ajayi’s injury occurred during Nigeria’s campaign at the Africa Cup of Nations, a major tournament that significantly impacted his pre-season and early-season availability with Hull. His impending return is expected to bolster a defence that has had to adjust in his prolonged absence. While no exact timeline for his competitive return has been given, the coaching staff’s comments suggest a comeback is imminent once he completes the final steps of his rehabilitation and integrates into full training.
The defender’s experience and physical presence will be valuable as Hull City navigates the remaining fixtures of their season. His recovery marks a positive development for the club, who will look to reintegrate a proven Championship performer into the squad for the crucial final stages of the campaign.
