AFCON IIs Big Headache for Us, But Players Are Happy, Proud – Hull City Boss

AFCON IIs Big Headache for Us, But Players Are Happy, Proud – Hull City Boss

Sampson Adedeji

The manager of English Championship side Hull City, Sergej Jakirovic, has admitted that the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) presents a major challenge for clubs with African players, but stressed that such concerns are outweighed by the pride of international representation, BSNSports.com.ng reports. 

Speaking on the impact of the continental tournament, Jakirovic acknowledged the disruption AFCON causes to club schedules, noting that losing key players mid-season is never easy for teams competing in demanding domestic leagues.

“It’s a big headache for us, yes, and all the clubs that have players from Africa, but what can we do? This is the Africa Cup of Nations,” the Hull City boss said.

Despite the challenges, Jakirovic was quick to underline the importance of the competition to the players, describing AFCON as the African equivalent of the European Championship.

“For those players, this is like the European Championship. They represent their own country, and they are very proud,” he added.

Jakirovic also expressed Hull City’s support for their players on international duty, insisting the club takes pride in having footballers trusted at national team level.

 “We are very proud because we have a national team player and we wish him all the very best,” he concluded.

Nigeria’s Super Eagles defender Semi Ajayi is currently on the books of Hull City and is expected to represent his country at the Africa Cup of Nations.