Hugo Ekitike
Liverpool’s forward Hugo Ekitike is preparing to take on a leading role for the team following the unfortunate injury of his teammate Alexander Isak. The Swedish international suffered a broken leg during Liverpool’s 2-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur last month. Isak’s fibula fracture, sustained while scoring in the match, has sidelined the £125 million forward until at least March, following surgery conducted within 24 hours of the injury. With Mohamed Salah also unavailable due to Egypt’s Africa Cup of Nations commitments in Morocco, Ekitike, who is currently the Reds’ top scorer with 11 goals this season, is expected to fill the void at Anfield.
Hugo Ekitike said: “But for me, I try to do my job. The coach puts me on the pitch and I’ll show him and show the fans that I can help the team. It doesn’t matter if I score, if I give assists, the most important [thing] for me is to win.”
Liverpool managed to extend their unbeaten run with a goalless draw against Leeds United at Anfield on New Year’s Day. Although the result was seen as frustrating for Arne Slot’s side, it marked a positive shift from a challenging period between late September and November when the team lost nine out of 12 matches. Ekitike reflected on this phase and the team’s current form.
Ekitike added: “Obviously it was a tough period for us but we just stick together, try to work. Obviously now it’s a bit better but I can’t say it’s the best because we have had a few draws in the last series. But I think the most important [thing] when you play here is to win, so we can’t be happy.”
The festive period provided Ekitike with a unique experience, as he expressed his excitement about playing during the Christmas and New Year fixtures.
Ekitike continued: “It was obviously special to play [around] Christmas and the next day after New Year. It’s really exciting. I was in a position when I was watching on TV, so being here and able to play that kind of game is a blessing.”
Liverpool is now gearing up for a demanding January schedule, with numerous fixtures lined up. Ekitike emphasized the importance of fitness and recovery during this busy period.
Ekitike concluded: “Now we’re going back to a busy, busy period, a lot of games in this month of January, but it’s up to us to be fit, recover well after every game and be ready for the next one all the time.”
Liverpool will next face Fulham at Craven Cottage on Sunday afternoon, as they aim to continue their pursuit of success in the Premier League.
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