West Bromwich Albion head coach Carlos Corberan expressed his relief and happiness at having Super Eagles defender Semi Ajayi safely back with the team. Ajayi, a consistent presence in West Brom's lineup this season, played just a few minutes during Nigeria's recent international fixtures, coming on late to help secure a 1-0 win over Libya.
Ajayi and his teammates faced a challenging return trip to Libya, where they were delayed at the airport for over 13 hours, without food or internet access, a situation Corberan described as difficult. West Brom maintained contact with Ajayi throughout, ensuring he was safe despite the ordeal.
Acknowledging the unusual circumstances, Corberan emphasized the need to help Ajayi recover quickly, noting that while they couldn’t control the delay, they could support his readiness for the club’s upcoming matches. Corberan praised Ajayi's resilience, noting that while his playing time was limited during the break, he remained fit due to his regular club appearances.
The coach reassured fans that Ajayi would have sufficient rest before returning to training, mentioning that a short break from continuous matches might even be beneficial. He explained that it’s common for national team duties to disrupt club routines, but it's important to respect the value players bring to their countries.
Corberan also highlighted the role of other returning international players, who he’ll reintegrate into the squad this week. He noted the value of these players' contributions to their respective national teams, underscoring their skill and importance.
As the team prepares for their next fixture against Oxford United, Corberan confirmed that they would resume work with Ajayi and other returning internationals on Thursday. With a packed schedule ahead, the club is focusing on adapting to these challenges as they strive for the top of the EFL Championship standings.
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