Hull City FC have opened discussions with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) as they seek to delay the release of defender Semi Ajayi for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
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Ajayi is expected to join the Super Eagles camp ahead of the tournament, but under current arrangements, the centre-back would depart after Hull City’s home fixture against Wrexham on December 10.
This would leave him available for only two more matches, including the upcoming clash with Middlesbrough.
According to Hullive, Hull City are pushing for permission to retain the in-form defender until after their away fixture at Millwall on December 14.
The plan would see Ajayi travel from Heathrow immediately after the match in South London.
Ajayi has been a standout performer for the Tigers in recent weeks, notably delivering a Man-of-the-Match display and scoring his first goal for the club in the 2-1 victory over Stoke City.
His departure for AFCON, where Nigeria open their campaign on December 23 against Tanzania, could see him miss up to six Championship matches and an FA Cup third-round tie should the Super Eagles advance deep into the tournament.
Despite the potential month-long absence, Hull City are not expected to seek a temporary replacement.
Head coach Sergej Jakirovic is said to be confident in his defensive options, with Akin Famewo likely to step in following his strong showing off the bench at Stoke.
The AFCON tournament runs until January 18, with Ajayi expected to return to club duty later in the month depending on Nigeria’s progress.
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