Ajayi escapes hamstring injury, set for Coventry

n n

Hull City have been handed a major boost after their weekend win over Manchester United, with Super Eagles defender Semi Ajayi cleared of a hamstring injury and set to be included in the squad for Saturday’s trip to Coventry City, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

n

Ajayi had been substituted in the 64th minute of Hull’s 2-0 victory over Manchester United at the MKM Stadium after complaining of hamstring stiffness, prompting concern over his availability.

n

However, the defender has since come through subsequent checks without any issues, alongside fellow goalscorer Noah Mendy, who had also been withdrawn with an adductor complaint.

n

Speaking immediately after the Manchester United match, before the extent of the injuries became clear, Sergej Jakirovic explained that the changes in defence had not been part of his plan.

n

“Ajayi was complaining about his hamstring, and Nobel about his adductor,” he said.

n

Ajayi had enjoyed a memorable afternoon before his withdrawal, scoring the opening goal in the 17th minute as Hull stunned Manchester United on their return to the Premier League after nine years away. The 32-year-old pounced on a rebound after Manchester United goalkeeper Senne Lammens denied Oli McBurnie from a corner, before Mendy doubled Hull’s advantage in the first half.

n

Speaking to TNT Sports after the match, Ajayi described his goal, his first in the Premier League since Hull’s return to the division, as the capstone of a strong start by his side.

n

“It was amazing. It kind of capped off the really good start that we had. We had a couple of chances before that which we didn’t manage to put away, but obviously that one got us into the lead, and also gave us something to protect, but also build on,” he said.

n

“I’m buzzing to get the goal to get us underway. I’m happy it left us getting three points.”

n

Hull held firm after taking a two-goal cushion, with goalkeeper Konstantinos Tzolakis producing several crucial saves as Manchester United searched for a way back into the contest.

n

n n