Hull City manager Sergej Jakirović has revealed that Nigerian international Semi Ajayi will receive more playing time in the coming weeks.
The manager says he is prepared to help the defender build fitness ahead of joining Eric Chelle’s squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
Ajayi, who is on loan from West Bromwich Albion, featured in Hull’s recent 2–0 midweek defeat to Ipswich Town.
The former Arsenal academy player has made eight league appearances for the Championship side this season as they continue their push for promotion to the Premier League.
Speaking to the Yorkshire Post, Jakirović said Ajayi’s increased involvement is part of a strategic approach to manage the club’s defensive options before the centre-back departs for AFCON preparations in December.
“So I will try to spare John Egan because we don’t have many centre-backs. We have Charlie Hughes and Akin Famewo,” he explained.
“Semi will play even more now,” the Croatian added. “He will play more because he is going to the Africa Cup of Nations on December 10.”
Jakirović also noted that careful rotation will be necessary, given Hull’s limited defensive options once Ajayi leaves for international duty.
Nigeria have been drawn in Group C for the tournament, alongside Tunisia, Uganda and Tanzania.
The Super Eagles are aiming to recover from their failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and will be pushing to win a fourth AFCON title after finishing as runners-up in the previous edition.
