da winzada777： This article is part of Football FanCast’s Opinion series, which provides analysis, insight and opinion on any issue within the beautiful game, from Paul Pogba’s haircuts to League Two relegation battles…
da bet sport： Even though West Brom aren’t competing in the top-flight of English football, several of the players amongst the squad are still called up for international duty – even more so after the start they’ve had to this campaign.
The Baggies occupy top spot after 11 matches as their 4-2 victory over Cardiff City saw them regain possession of the Championship lead.
Just days earlier, Slaven Bilic’s men had seen their unbeaten record halted at the hands of Marcelo Bielsa’s Leeds United, but they responded perfectly to put that behind them.
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Semi Ajayi has appeared to continue his rich vein of form onto the international stage after featuring for Nigeria on Sunday afternoon.
The 25-year-old centre-back has cemented his name as one of the bargains of the summer in the Championship so far this season, proving to be an influential member of Bilic’s backline.
And even though the side have kept just one clean sheet, he’s still been a significant presence at either end of the pitch after scoring two goals and averaging 4.2 clearances per game, via WhoScored.
The Super Eagles were faced with a tough friendly against Brazil in Singapore as Ajayi featured for the full 90 minutes.
During the game, he had to defend against the likes of PSG star Neymar, Liverpool’s Roberto Firmino, Manchester City’s Gabriel Jesus and Bayern Munich’s temporary man Philippe Coutinho.
Considering 31 places separate Brazil (third) to Nigeria (34th) in the world rankings, only conceding the one goal is quite some feat, and in doing so, the West Brom defender played his part in defending a wave of attacks.
AllNigeriaSoccer handed Ajayi a 7.5 out of ten and said: “Did admirably well in the rear and carried the ball with poise and confidence. Arguably his team’s best defender.”
This is a glowing review and bodes particularly well if he can perform against some of the most threatening attackers in world football.
This level of performance is a good sign for Albion’s Premier League hopes as the 6 foot 4 centre-back has made a huge stride in showing his credentials against elite opposition.
If the Baggies can indeed gain promotion this season, they’ll know they can call upon Ajayi in defence.