Semi Ajayi has embraced the fierce battle for defensive positions in the Super Eagles squad, insisting that healthy competition can only strengthen Nigeria's chances as the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign approaches.

The Hull City centre-back, nicknamed "The Tower," acknowledges that he must fight for his place alongside the likes of Calvin Bassey and other talented defenders in the squad. Nigeria face Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau in the upcoming qualifying fixtures.

Strength in numbers

Speaking to RG, Ajayi described the current depth in the Super Eagles pool as a positive development for Nigerian football as a whole.

"It's good that Nigeria is blessed with so much talent, so it's good that we're able to bring in so many new players and give them an opportunity to represent their country. So far, so good," he said.

"Everyone's done really, really well and I'm proud. I think having competition for places is always good. The more quality players we can pull from is always a good thing because people aren't always going to be available."

Eyes on the Premier League

On the club front, Ajayi spoke of his personal ambition to perform at the highest level after Hull City earned promotion to the Premier League — a campaign in which he scored in a 2-0 victory over Manchester United.

"It's amazing. I want to play at the highest level and test myself at the highest level," he said.

"The Championship fight was not easy, but we proved that our team's quality is able to challenge in the Premier League. It was really a successful season for us, going to Wembley. To be able to achieve that and get the opportunity to be here this season is massive."

Ajayi added that Hull City's pre-season preparations have given the squad the grounding needed to hold their own in England's top flight.

"Personally, I just want to win as many games as possible. I will be ready to help the team to keep our place in the Premier League. We know it is not an easy fight, and we had a good pre-season preparation for it."