'Very important' - Hull coach reveals what Ajayi brings to the team ahead of Preston North End clash

Hull City head coach Sergej Jakirović has outlined the qualities Nigerian defender Semi Ajayi brings to the squad ahead of Tuesday's clash with Preston North End.

Ajayi, who joined the Tigers on a free transfer in the summer, impressed on his debut against Coventry City before an injury sidelined him, forcing him to miss seven matches in all competitions.

Now in contention for a return at the MKM Stadium, the former Arsenal man is a welcome boost for Jakirović, whose side has struggled defensively in his absence.

Jakirović confirmed the Nigerian defender’s availability and emphasized the qualities he adds to strengthen the team.

"For the last two weeks, he trained in full, very hard. So he's one option to play these games,," Jakirovic was quoted as saying by The Yorkshire Post. 

"What does he bring? Everything – speed, duels, a tall player in our box who cleared a lot of balls against Coventry. He's very important."

Hull City’s defensive struggles have been evident in the absence of the Nigerian international, conceding 14 goals across six Championship matches without him. 

The figure rose to 17 when their League Cup defeat to Wrexham was added.

With only Wrexham, Bristol City, Coventry City, and Middlesbrough outscoring the Tigers in the Championship, his return comes as a major boost for the manager, who will be eager to see an improvement in the team’s defensive performances.

Adeyemi Adewale

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