English Premier League
Semi Ajayi praises Hull City’s display despite draw at Coventry on debut
By Oluwadamilola Olaleye
Nigerian international Semi Ajayi has praised Hull City’s disciplined performance in their goalless draw against Coventry City, describing the result as a positive step in the early stages of the season.
The 30-year-old defender, who recently joined Hull following the expiration of his contract with West Bromwich Albion, made his full debut at the Coventry Building Society Arena. Ajayi played a key role in securing a clean sheet as both sides shared the points in a tightly contested encounter.
“I’d say overall it’s a positive result to come to a place like this and get a draw and another clean sheet,” Ajayi said in his post-match comments.
“There are definitely things we can take away from the game that we need to improve on, but there are a lot of positives we can take as well.”
Ajayi stressed Hull’s composed start and defensive resilience as key takeaways from the match.
“The way we started the game was really good — just to quiet down the fans — and we got a good grip of the game. There were times when we had to suffer and defend, but we did that really, really well. We didn’t look like conceding, which is a positive that we can take into next week and the season ahead.”
Reflecting on his own performance, the former Arsenal academy product expressed satisfaction but also acknowledged room for growth.
“I was pleased. A clean sheet is always what a defender’s looking for. There are definitely things I can improve on, but it’s a good start and something to build on,” he said.
“I pride myself on taking my one-on-one matchups seriously, so whoever I’m up against, I want to dominate that matchup and come out on top in the duels I face.”
Hull City now turn their attention to the Carabao Cup, where they face Wrexham in the first round.
The fixture also marks a historic milestone, as it will be the Tigers’ 150th appearance in the competition.
