Semi Ajayi hits form bang on time with 100% Nigeria masterclass v Ivory Coast amid West Brom transfer news
West Brom have had to do without Semi Ajayi for the time being, with the central defender currently on international duty.
The defensive ace is representing Nigeria at the Africa Cup of Nations, with his latest run out coming against Ivory Coast on Thursday (18 January).
And the Baggies ace was a key man for his nation as they edged past the hosts 1-0, with Ajayi playing the entire 90 minutes.
Playing a crucial role in the important clean sheet, the Albion star completed 91% of his passes, losing possession of the ball just three times [Sofascore].
Moreover, the centre-back won both of his ground duels (100%) and two of his three aerial duels, as well as making three clearances, one interception and one tackle.
West Brom manager Carlos Corberan will be delighted with the display, particularly given the worrying situation regarding fellow centre-back Cedric Kipre.
As per Fabrizio Romano (12 January), the Albion defender is attracting interest from clubs in the Premier League, Ligue 1 and the Bundesliga.
His current deal at The Hawthorns expires this summer, but Corberan can rest easy knowing that Ajayi is more than capable of stepping up to the plate.
Nigeria currently occupy second spot in Group A of Afcon, with their final group clash coming against bottom-placed Guinea-Bissau on Monday (22 January).
Ajayi will be keen to impress once more for his nation, and he looks set to be in for a key role, having also played the entire 90 minutes in the opening clash with Equatorial Guinea, which ended 1-1.
In other West Brom news, Brandon Thomas-Asante has gushed over one exit-linked Albion teammate amid January transfer window speculation.
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