The Tigers continue to lose key players as they have done all season
Barry Cooper Hull City correspondent
05:00, 21 Jan 2026
Semi Ajayi in action for Nigeria against Egypt(Image: ANP via Getty Images)
Hull City have been hit by yet another major injury setback with the news that Semi Ajayi is set to be sidelined for the next two months with the problem he sustained at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Ajayi limped out in added time of Nigeria’s third-placed win over Egypt on Sunday, and scan results have since confirmed damage to his hamstring, which could rule him out for the next seven weeks.
It’s just another major blow to the Tigers, who have been left reeling after losing Mo Belloumi and Darko Gyabi to long-term injuries in recent weeks.
Despite that, Sergej Jakirovic’s men claimed another big three points on the road without Ajayi, romping to a 3-0 win at Preston North End, courtesy of goals from Liam Millar, Akin Famewo and Oli McBurnie.
David Akintola limped off at the start of the second half and was replaced by debutant Yu Hirakawa, who immediately set up McBurnie’s before John Egan departed in added time. Both players were suffering from cramp, and it’s hoped they will be available for the weekend.
Jakirovic was able to welcome back Joe Gelhardt after a nine-game absence, and the 10-goal forward twice came close to marking his return with a goal.
Kyle Joseph missed Tuesday night’s impressive showing with an ankle problem he sustained at Southampton, and faces a race against time to return on Saturday when City host Swansea City.
City hope Ryan Giles will be fit enough to return to the squad at Blackburn Rovers on Saturday week, when the Tigers round off January in Lancashire, looking for a fourth away win on the spin after their fine Deepdale display.
Here at Hull Live , we are dedicated to bringing you the best Hull City coverage and analysis.
Make sure you don’t miss out on the latest City news by joining our free WhatsApp group.
You can get all the breaking news and best analysis sent straight to your phone by clicking here to subscribe. You can also subscribe to our free newsletter service.
Click here to be sent the day’s biggest stories.