West Bromwich Albion manager Carlos Corberán has confirmed that Super Eagles defender Semi Ajayi is expected to be sidelined for up to four months after suffering a serious hamstring injury.
Ajayi picked up the injury during West Brom’s Championship clash against Cardiff City last weekend. The Nigerian international was forced off in the second half after sustaining the setback in what Corberán described as an unfortunate accident.
Softfootball understands that the central defender will undergo surgery in the coming days, with the procedure considered the best option to aid his recovery and reduce the risk of a similar injury in the future.
Corberán explained that medical assessments revealed the severity of the injury, with the muscle suffering a complete tear that requires surgical intervention rather than conservative treatment.
According to the Spaniard, while surgery may slightly extend Ajayi’s recovery period, it offers the best long-term solution by significantly lowering the chances of the injury recurring.
The West Brom boss added that players who undergo this type of procedure typically need around 16 weeks before they are ready to return to competitive action.
Ajayi’s lengthy absence is a major setback for both West Brom and the Super Eagles, with the experienced defender playing an important role at the heart of the Baggies’ defence this season.
The injury also raises concerns over his availability for Nigeria’s upcoming international fixtures, with the 30-year-old now facing a race against time to regain full fitness.
West Brom will hope Ajayi’s surgery is successful and that he returns stronger as they continue their push for promotion to the Premier League without one of their key defensive figures.
