Nigeria’s national team head coach, Eric Chelle, has received a major boost ahead of the Super Eagles’ crucial World Cup qualifiers in March, as Semi Ajayi has returned to club training following a lengthy injury spell.
The 30-year-old defender has been out since October 2023 with a hamstring injury but is now working his way back to full fitness at West Bromwich Albion.
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West Brom head coach Tony Mowbray confirmed Ajayi’s return, revealing that the Nigerian centre-back has been featuring for the club’s U-21 team to build match sharpness.
“I’ve had conversations with [director of medical] Tony Strudwick about Dike. You could say the same about Semi [Ajayi] and maybe Frabotta and Cole. When do they play? I’m asking,” Mowbray said, per Express and Star.
“I need to see all these players play. I’d like to see them in an under-21s game. You can only play three overage players, but I’ve had the conversation with Semi. ‘What about 45 minutes?’ I’m coming to watch.”
Ajayi’s return to full fitness comes at a crucial time for both West Brom and Nigeria. Before his injury, he was a key figure for the Baggies, playing every minute in the EFL Championship.
Ajayi’s return is a welcome boost for Eric Chelle, whose first competitive matches as Super Eagles head coach will be the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
- March 19: Nigeria vs. Gambia (Away – Rwanda)
- March 22: Nigeria vs. Gabon (Home)
With about six weeks to regain full match fitness, Ajayi will be aiming to reclaim his spot in Nigeria’s squad as they continue their push for World Cup qualification.