Hull City suffer big blow in their push for EPL promotion, as Semi Ajayi sidelined with 2 months injury

The 32-year-old, who joined the Tigers on a free transfer from West Bromwich Albion last summer, had established himself as a cornerstone of the team's defence. 

The defender was called up to the Nigeria national team for the AFCON and helped the team claim a bronze medal.

The Nigerian international came in as a substitute against Egypt in the third-place playoff, which they won via penalty shootout.

Ajayi picked up a hamstring injury during the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and is expected to be out of action for up to two months, according to reports from the Hull Daily Mail.

The defender’s injury brings a frustrating end to what was a stellar tournament for the defender. He was instrumental in Nigeria's run, which saw them secure a third-place finish in Morocco.

His campaign began impressively, scoring Nigeria's first goal in a 2-1 victory against Tanzania and earning the Man of the Match award. 

He went on to play in six of the Super Eagles' seven games, forming a formidable partnership with Fulham's Calvin Bassey at the heart of the defence.

After a demanding AFCON campaign, Ajayi was set to return to the MKM Stadium. Instead, he now faces a lengthy rehabilitation period, extending his total time away from the club to nearly three months.

Subsequent scans have confirmed hamstring damage, dealing a fresh setback to a Hull side that has battled a string of injuries to key players all season.

His absence will be keenly felt, stretching a squad already thin due to persistent fitness issues.