Teddy Sheringham makes blunt Hugo Ekitike and Alexander Isak Liverpool point - 'I wouldn't be happy'

Below is a summary of the full article. Click here for the full version or go back to LFC Live.net.

Alexander Isak may have to settle for a place on the Liverpool bench if Hugo Ekitike continues his fantastic form.

That's the verdict of former Manchester United striker Teddy Sheringham.

Ekitike has made a blistering start to life at Liverpool with his winner in Tuesday's 2-1 Carabao Cup success at home to Southampton being his fifth goal in eight appearances since his £79m summer switch from Eintracht Frankfurt.

The Frenchman came on at half-time after replacing £125m British transfer record signing Isak, who had broken the deadlock with his first goal for the Reds following his deadline day arrival from Newcastle United.

READ MORE:National media react to 'preposterous' Liverpool decision that left Arne Slot 'dumbfounded'READ MORE:Alexander Isak gives Liverpool fitness update after Hugo Ekitike half-time decision

Ekitike was in line to start Saturday's intriguing Premier League trip to Crystal Palace but he is now suspended after he was shown a second yellow card for removing his shirt immediately after putting Arne Slot's side back in front against Southampton.

That could lead to Isak leading the Reds line at Selhurst Park but Sheringham believes the Swede is currently second in the centre-forward pecking order at Anfield.

The ex-England international said: "Hugo Ekitike should be picked to lead Liverpool’s front line ahead of Alexander Isak.

"Ekitike has settled in really well to the team and has been brilliant in the opening fixtures of the season.

"As good as Isak is, I don’t think it’s fair to Ekitike to have a new signing slot straight in to the starting line-up ahead of him.

"I think Arne Slot will slowly integrate Isak into the team, rather than putting him straight in at the deep end.

"He needs some time to regain his fitness and get used to the style Liverpool play.

"Approaching it that way also keeps Isak eager to prove his worth in training and get into the line-up on merit rather than reputation.

"Ekitike has had a lot longer to settle into the team and has proved his quality on the pitch.

"If I was in his position, and a new signing took my place straight away, I wouldn’t be happy!"

That position will be taken out of Ekitike's hands this weekend as Liverpool take on a Palace side who are the only other team in the Premier League still unbeaten after five matches.

The win over Southampton ensured the Reds have won all seven of the games they have played in all competitions so far this season after losing the Community Shield to the Eagles on penalties.

A big reason for their flying start has been midfielder Ryan Gravenberch, who will return to Slot's starting line-up on Saturday after being rested in midweek.

And Sheringham, speaking to Coin Poker, said of the Dutchman: "Ryan Gravenberch has been really impressive for Liverpool so far - he’s got better since he signed for the club.

"He looked a little bit out of place when he first joined but has since improved markedly and looks like a top player.

"I’d put him amongst the best midfielders in the Premier League.

"I really like the way he goes about his business on the pitch and has been a key player in making this Liverpool team into what it is - one of Europe’s most dominant teams.

"He probably doesn’t get the credit he deserves because you’ve got several star players in that squad, such as Mohamed Salah, Hugo Ekitike, Dominik Szoboszlai and now Alexander Isak!

Article continues below

"I’ve got a feeling he’ll be crucial to Liverpool’s title challenge this season."