Hull City have confirmed that defender Semi Ajayi will be sidelined for around two months after sustaining a hamstring injury while representing Nigeria in the third-place match at the Africa Cup of Nations.
The 31-year-old left the pitch in added time during the Super Eagles’ 1-0 victory over Egypt on Sunday, and subsequent scans revealed hamstring damage.
Ajayi’s absence is expected to last approximately seven weeks, compounding injury problems for Hull City, who have already lost Mo Belloumi and Darko Gyabi to long-term injuries in recent weeks.
Despite the setback, Hull City recorded a 3-0 away victory over Preston North End, with goals from Liam Millar, Akin Famewo, and Oli McBurnie.
During the match, David Akintola limped off early in the second half due to cramp and was replaced by debutant Yu Hirakawa, who quickly provided the assist for McBurnie’s goal. Defender John Egan also left the field in added time with cramp, though both players are expected to be available for the weekend fixture.
Kyle Joseph missed the game entirely after sustaining an ankle injury against Southampton and faces a race against time to return for Saturday’s home match against Swansea City.
Hull City are hopeful that Ryan Giles will be fit to return to the squad for next Saturday’s trip to Blackburn Rovers.
Elijah Adeyemi
