‘Speechless’ Semi Ajayi reveals shock after Nigeria call-up

The Rotherham United defender was one of the surprise inclusions made by Gernot Rohr for Seychelles clash

Semi Ajayi has revealed that he ‘was a bit speechless’ after receiving news of his maiden call-up to the Nigeria national team setup.

Last week, Gernot Rohr invited the former Arsenal prospect and 23 other players for the Super Eagles’ 2019 African Cup of Nations qualifiers against Seychelles on September 8.

And the Rotherham United versatile defender, who last represented the country in a U20 tournament in 2013, disclosed his reaction to a news he ‘was not expecting’.

“I'm over the moon. It's the greatest honour to be able to represent your country and I'm looking forward to linking up with the squad,” Ajayi told club website.

“I've played for the under 20s at the Toulon International Festival and that was a great experience but it's even better to be called-up to the full squad.

“I was a bit speechless to be fair and I didn't really know what to say, but when I got my words back I told him I would 100% be interested in playing for my country and it just went from there,” Ajayi continued.

“I wasn't expecting it, I had no idea. I got a call during the week from the assistant manager asking me if I'd like to represent Nigeria and I was delighted.

“He said that they've been watching me closely this season and that they've liked what they've seen, which is obviously what's led to the call-up.

“I'm really delighted and I just need to continue working hard and pushing on," he concluded.