2026 WCQ: Hull City manager Jakirovic sends message to Chelle over Ajayi

Sergej Jakirovic, manager of Hull City, has called on head coach of Super Eagles Eric Chelle to play Semi Ajayi in Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Benin Republic and Lesotho this month.

According to Jakirovic, it is an opportunity for Ajayi to develop his match fitness ahead of Hull City’s future matches after the October international break.

Chelle had recently included the Hull City centre-back in his final 23-man squad for the qualifiers.

The 31-year-old, who recently recovered from injury, has managed just eight minutes of action for Hull since his recovery.

Speaking at his post-match interview after Hull City’s 1-0 defeat to Sheffield United this weekend, Jakirovic said (via Hull Live): “I’m OK because you cannot stop them.

“I know that next year is the World Cup, so when it is the World Cup, everyone is buzzing.

“I hope he [Ajayi] will play something there because he needs it, and Liam as well. I hope they will return healthy.”