Semi Ajayi has welcomed the growing competition for places in the Super Eagles as Nigeria prepare for their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.
The experienced defender faces increased competition for a starting role in central defence, with Calvin Bassey and other options also competing for places ahead of Nigeria’s qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau next month.
Rather than viewing the battle for positions as a threat, however, Ajayi believes the depth of talent available to Nigeria can only strengthen the national team.
“It’s good that Nigeria is blessed with so much talent, so it’s good that we’re able to bring in so many new players and give them an opportunity to represent their country. So far, so good,” he said.
The Hull City defender added:
“Everyone’s done really, really well and I’m proud.”
Semi Ajayi has scored Hull City’s first Premier League goal in nine years. Photocredit: Getty Images
Ajayi feels the competition is a natural part of building a stronger squad, particularly given the demands of international football.
“I think having competition for places is always good. The more quality players we can pull from is always a good thing because people aren’t always going to be available.”
Ajayi’s international ambitions come alongside a new challenge at club level following Hull City’s return to the Premier League.
The 32-year-old defender scored in Hull’s 2-0 victory over Manchester United and remains determined to establish himself at the highest level.
“It’s amazing. I want to play at the highest level and test myself at the highest level.”
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Hull secured their Premier League return after a difficult Championship campaign that ultimately culminated in a Wembley opportunity.
Ajayi believes the achievement demonstrated that the squad possessed the quality required to compete at the top level.
“The Championship fight was not easy, but we proved that our team’s quality is able to challenge in the Premier League. It was really a successful season for us, going to Wembley. To be able to achieve that and get the opportunity to be here this season is massive.”
Semi Ajayi won man of the match after scoring Hull City’s first Premier League goal in nine years. Photocredit: Getty Images
With Hull now back among England’s elite, Ajayi has shifted his attention towards helping the club remain there.
His immediate ambition is straightforward: collect as many victories as possible and contribute to Hull’s survival.
“Personally, I just want to win as many games as possible. I will be ready to help the team to keep our place in the Premier League.”
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He also acknowledged the scale of the challenge facing Hull after their promotion.
“We know it is not an easy fight, and we had a good pre-season preparation for it.”
With several defenders pushing for opportunities, the battle for starting places is likely to intensify something Ajayi believes should ultimately benefit the team rather than divide it.
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