Semi Ajayi's injury, which he suffered last week during Nigeria's friendly with Iran, turned out to less serious than initially feared, with the central defender going the distance for Hull City in a 1-1 draw against Oxford United on Good Friday, allnigeriasoccer.com reports. 

The former Arsenal youth team captain withdrew from the Nigeria squad before they faced Jordan in Antalya, Turkey, citing fitness concerns. 

However, Ajayi reportedly trained with the Tigers ahead of the trip to the Kassam Stadium, an indication that the injury was minor. 

In his absence, Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle handed a starting debut to Rangers centre-back Emmanuel Fernandez, who rose to the occasion by scoring his first goal for Nigeria.

Against relegation-threated Oxford United, Hull City took the lead inside four minutes, and Ajayi was involved in the build-up to the goal.

Mohamed Belloumi expertly controlled Ajayi's long pass on his chest, glided past Ruben Roosken, and drilled a left-footed effort past goalkeeper Jamie Cumming via a deflection.

Hull City were pegged back nine minutes later when Cameron Brannagan converted from the spot after Charlie Hughes brought down Will Lankshear.

Ajayi’s assist against Oxford United was his first goal involvement for Hull City since scoring in the 2–1 win over Stoke City in November 2025.