After a lengthy and frustrating spell on the sidelines, Super Eagles defender Semi Ajayi finally made his long-awaited return to West Bromwich Albion’s squad in their 2-0 defeat to Blackburn.
The Nigerian international was named on the bench during the Championship clash at the Hawthorns on Wednesday, marking a significant milestone in his recovery.
Semi Ajayi’s injury woes began on October 26, 2024, when he suffered a hamstring injury during West Brom’s match against Cardiff City. The severity of the injury required surgery, which subsequently ruled him out of action for four months.
However, after undergoing a rigorous rehabilitation program, Ajayi gradually returned to personal and team training, paving the way for his eventual comeback to the squad. West Brom head coach, Tony Mowbray’s decision to include Semi Ajayi on the bench against Blackburn is also a clear indication that the Nigerian defender is nearing a return to the pitch.
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While Ajayi’s comeback was a welcome boost for West Brom, the result of the game was far less pleasing for the team’s supporters as a brace from Makhtar Gueye condemned The Baggies to a disappointing 2-0 defeat, their second home loss in the league this season.
The setback saw West Brom remain in sixth position on the Championship table, with 47 points from 32 matches, two points above Bristol City and Sheffield Wednesday, who occupy seventh and eighth place respectively.
Semi Ajayi’s return to action is a welcome development for new Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, who will be delighted to have the Nigerian defender back in contention ahead of the crucial World Cup qualifiers in March.
Ajayi’s presence will provide Chelle with more options to pick from, as he seeks to assemble a strong squad to tackle the huge challenge of avoiding consecutive World Cup misses for the Super Eagles.
With Semi Ajayi’s return, West Brom will be hoping that his presence will help to shore up their defense and provide a much-needed boost to their promotion bid. As the season enters its critical phase, Ajayi’s experience and leadership will be invaluable assets for West Brom, and his return to action couldn’t have come at a more perfect time.
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