Hull City assistant coach Dean Holden has praised Nigeria’s Super Eagles manager, Eric Chelle, for giving Semi Ajayi valuable minutes during the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho and Benin, noting that the run of games has helped the defender regain much-needed sharpness.
Holden, who took charge of the Tigers’ Championship clash with Leicester City on Tuesday night in place of suspended head coach Sergej Jakirovic, said Ajayi’s international outings came at the perfect time for both the player and the club.
According to Holden, Hull’s head coach, Jakirovic, had personally urged Chelle ahead of the international break to give the 29-year-old defender competitive minutes, viewing it as an ideal opportunity to rebuild confidence and conditioning.
Ajayi’s performances with the Super Eagles have reportedly impressed Hull’s backroom staff, who believe his return to form could strengthen their defensive options as the Tigers push for consistency in the Championship.
Holden emphasised that Ajayi’s participation with the Super Eagles in the World Cup qualifiers was crucial in helping him get back into rhythm, after watching the defender’s performance.
“Yes, again, I thought the timing of his tackling in the second half was excellent, especially when there was a lot of pressure coming on top of us,” Holden told Hull City’s official media channel.
“Semi can be very, very pleased, but we are glad he got the minutes with Nigeria, which has given him a little bit of his rhythm back.
“Whoever comes into the team at the moment is performing, and that’s excellent for us.”
With Ajayi now back in full rhythm, Hull City will be counting on his experience and stability at the back as they prepare for a demanding stretch of fixtures leading up to the winter schedule.
