Former African Footballer of the Year, Victor Ikpeba, has praised Super Eagles centre-back Semi Ajayi for his contribution to Hull City’s impressive start to the new Premier League season.

The Tigers have made a strong impression since returning to the English topflight after eight years away, opening their campaign with a 2-0 victory over Manchester United, in which Ajayi scored the opener in the 17th minute before Nobel Mendy doubled the lead. It was Hull’s first Premier League goal since 2017 and their first league win over United in 52 years.

After matchday three in the Premier League, Sergej Jakirović’s side sit third in the standings with seven points, bettered only by reigning champions Arsenal and Manchester City, who both have a hundred per cent record. Hull City also have the league’s best defensive record, with three clean sheets from their opening three matches.

The Nigeria international has featured prominently for the Tigers so far this season, combining his defensive duties with the decisive contribution against United that set the tone for their season.

Despite Hull’s impressive position, Ikpeba played down suggestions that the newly promoted side could realistically challenge for a European place, stressing that their primary objective should be securing their Premier League status.

Speaking on SuperSport’s Monday Night Football, as monitored by allnigeriasoccer.com, Ikpeba said: “We have to give credit to our defender Semi Ajayi, we are happy that his team is doing well. Third position is a little bit too much. For Hull City, it is to survive in the Premier League.”

Ajayi and his Hull City teammates will face a stern test on Saturday when they travel to Stamford Bridge to take on fourth-placed Chelsea.