'A man mountain' – Ajayi hailed after impressive debut for Hull City in goalless draw v Coventry

Semi Ajayi has been hailed by the English press following his impressive debut for Hull City in their goalless draw against Coventry City at the Coventry Building Society Arena on Saturday afternoon.

The Nigeria international completed his move to the Tigers last month following the expiration of his contract with West Brom, where he spent six years.

Taking charge for the first time in a competitive fixture, Sergej Jakirović handed a starting berth to experienced centre-back Ajayi.

In the second half, Semi Ajayi showcased his passing range with a raking crossfield ball to Giles, whose teasing delivery was glanced just wide of the far post by Regan Slater.

Moments later, the Super Eagles defender met Slater's lofted free-kick with a header, but directed it straight into the arms of goalkeeper Carl Rushworth.

Ajayi dominated defensively, winning three aerial duels, recording a game-high six tackles and eight clearances, and remarkably avoiding conceding a single foul.

The 31-year-old also made his presence felt in attack, winning a foul and testing the goalkeeper with a shot on target.

Hull Live rated Ajayi's performance at 8 out of 10 in their assessment of the Hull City squad.

On Ajayi, Barry Cooper, Hull City correspondent, wrote: "A debut for the former West Brom defender, looked very assured in the first period. A man mountain in the heart of the back four."

Since making his Championship debut in January 2017, Ajayi has gone on to rack up 201 appearances in the division, representing three different clubs.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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