Nigeria defender Semi Ajayi challenges Hull City to make history after stunning Premier League start

Semi Ajayi has challenged Hull City to create their own history after their impressive start to life in the Premier League, insisting the Tigers must focus on their own progress rather than follow the achievements of other clubs.

Hull have defied early expectations after opening their campaign with a stunning 2-0 victory over Manchester United, with Ajayi and Nobel Mendy scoring to secure all three points against the former Premier League champions.

The newly promoted side have maintained that momentum, collecting nine points from their opening six matches to establish themselves among the early surprises of the season.

Their impressive return has placed them above established Premier League sides, including Newcastle United, Liverpool, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur, raising hopes that they can avoid an immediate return to the Championship.

Speaking to Footy-Africa, Ajayi acknowledged the team’s encouraging start but warned that there was still plenty of work ahead as Hull pursue a successful campaign following their return to the top flight for the first time in a decade.

Ajayi plays down early success

“It’s been a good start. We’re happy with the work we’ve done so far,” Ajayi told Footy-Africa. “We know we haven’t done anything yet. There’s still a long way to go in the season, but we put ourselves in a really good position to have a positive season, so we’re really happy.

The defender’s comments reflect Hull’s determination to avoid becoming carried away by their early results, with the club aware that maintaining consistency over a full Premier League campaign will be crucial to their survival hopes.

Ajayi also reflected on his contribution to the opening-day victory over Manchester United, describing his goal as a special moment while emphasising the importance of the team’s collective achievement.

“It was a blessing to score the first goal back in the Premier League, also against a massive team like Manchester United – something I don’t take lightly. It was more important for me, really, that we got the three points and the win, which we did. So yeah, I was pleased.

The result immediately announced Hull’s return to the top flight in emphatic fashion and provided an early boost to their confidence against opponents with significantly greater Premier League experience.

Hull focused on creating their own history

With Hull’s strong start attracting attention, comparisons with other newly promoted teams have become inevitable. However, Ajayi insists the Tigers must concentrate on their own performances rather than measure themselves against the achievements of Sunderland, who enjoyed an impressive campaign last season.

“It’s just another game that we need to win, and we want to pick up points,” he continued. “Every single game is going to be tough this year. We know that every team plays differently, so we’ll approach that game with a new game plan and try to get as many points as we can.

“We’re not really focused on Sunderland,” he added. “We’re focused on ourselves. We have to do our own thing. We have to be Hull City. Sunderland had an amazing season last season, but it’s down to us to create our own history.”

His message underlines the importance of maintaining the club’s identity and approach as they navigate the challenges of competing against England’s top teams.

Fulham clash offers another opportunity

Hull’s most recent outing ended in a 2-2 draw against Everton, extending their encouraging run and providing another indication of their ability to compete in the division.

They will now turn their attention to an away fixture against Fulham this weekend, with another positive result potentially lifting them into the Premier League’s top four.

Such a position would represent a remarkable achievement for a side widely expected to struggle following promotion.

However, Ajayi’s comments suggest Hull are taking a measured approach, focusing on collecting points and building consistency rather than setting unrealistic expectations.

With the season still in its early stages, the Tigers have given themselves a promising platform. Their next challenge will be to sustain that form and turn an impressive opening into a campaign that delivers lasting success for the club.