As the English Championship got underway over the weekend, West Bromwich Albion officially resumed their push to gain promotion to the English Premier League by taking on Middlesbrough at the Riverside.
West Brom held their own at a very difficult ground for visiting teams and left with a point following a 1-1 draw. Coach of the team Steve Bruce reserved special praises for Nigeria international defender Semi Ajayi.
Ajayi was by far the best player on the pitch for the visitors and he ensured Boro didn’t snatch all three points. The performance ranks among one of his best since he joined the team.
He joined the Baggies from the Millers in 2019 and has since made more than 100 league starts in Albion colours. Bruce, who took over the hotseat in February, says he has noticed a big step up from the 6ft 4in Nigeria international.
“Ajayi I have to say, he’s improved enormously since I’ve walked through the door,” Bruce said.
“I’ve enjoyed watching him, he’s a hell of a good defender. When he’s like he was on Saturday he’s big, strong, powerful, quick, he gave a mountain of a performance, especially second half.”
