West Bromwich Albion’s Semi Ajayi ruled out of Nigeria’s Africa Cup of Nations campaign

West Bromwich Albion defender Semi Ajayi has been ruled out of Nigeria’s Africa Cup of Nations campaign.

According to BBC Sport, the 28-year-old suffered a groin injury in training with the Super Eagles, and will now miss the tournament in Cameroon.

Ajayi has been a key player for West Brom this season, making 19 appearances in the Championship.

He was also part of Nigeria’s squad for the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations.

West Brom head coach Carlos Corberán said: “It’s a big blow for us to lose Semi.”

“He’s a very important player for us, and he’s been in good form this season.”

“We’ll have to assess the injury and see how long he’s going to be out for.”

Nigeria are due to face Egypt, Sudan and Guinea-Bissau in the group stage of the Africa Cup of Nations, which begins on January 9.

Paddy McNair is likely to replace Ajayi in the West Brom team for their next fixture against Blackburn Rovers on December 29.