Hugo Ekitike admits big change since joining Liverpool and reveals boyhood Reds hero

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The Frenchman joined the Reds in a deal worth up to £79m from Eintracht Frankfurt this summer, and has enjoyed an explosive start to life at Anfield.

The 23-year-old scored in each of his first three appearances for the club, and has returned three goals and an assist in his first six outings for Liverpool.

And the striker has revealed his fellow France international's role in helping him quickly find his feet, as he shared his pride at playing for the Reds.

"I think the most important person when I came here was Ibou to be honest," he said.

I'm very proud.

"When you know where I come from, obviously it's a great feeling for me and my family.

"The intensity is high here, on the ball and off the ball.

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Ekitike is expected to lead the line in his first Merseyside derby on Saturday as Liverpool welcome Everton to Anfield.

The Frenchman admitted he has been watching old clips of derby matches on YouTube in preparation for the game, and understands that the Reds need to be 'ready for war' against their Merseyside neighbours.

"I can't lie, I've just watched some videos on YouTube and people were just kicking each other, so you know it's dangerous games!" he told Stan Sport.

"It's exciting because when I came here, they told me about straightaway about the Merseyside derby, Liverpool against Everton is really important here.

"I know it's the kind of game you need to be ready mentally.

It's going to be a tough, tough game but I think we are going to be ready."

Meanwhile, Ekitike also revealed that former Liverpool striker Fernando Torres was one of his boyhood heroes - along with two Manchester United legends.

"I really like...