Conor Bradley and Liverpool Staff May Have Dropped Hugo Ekitike Hint for Arsenal Game

Liverpool face a crucial Premier League clash against league leaders Arsenal on Thursday at the Emirates Stadium, but uncertainty surrounds star striker Hugo Ekitike's availability due to a hamstring injury.[1][2]

The 23-year-old Frenchman, Liverpool's top scorer with 11 goals and two assists this season, missed the recent 2-2 draw at Fulham after scans revealed more than initial muscle soreness—described by manager Arne Slot as a slight hamstring issue from overuse amid Alexander Isak's prolonged absence.[2][3][4] Slot remains hopeful Ekitike could return, stating it's "definitely not sure yet," but the increased minutes for the young forward, unaccustomed to the Premier League's intensity, led to the problem.[1][3]

Fueling speculation, Liverpool right-back Conor Bradley, head of rehab physiotherapy Lee Nobes, and journalist Neil Jones all removed Ekitike from their Fantasy Premier League (FPL) teams ahead of the game, as tracked by FPL Focal.[1] While possibly coincidental, the moves—especially from a senior medical staffer—suggest genuine concern over his fitness, potentially dealing a blow to Liverpool's attack.[1]

Defending champions Liverpool, on a nine-game unbeaten run but frustrated by recent draws (0-0 vs. Leeds, 2-2 vs. Fulham), already lack Isak (lower-leg surgery, out until March), Giovanni Leoni (ACL), and Wataru Endo (foot/ankle).[2][3][4] Mohamed Salah's status hinges on Egypt's AFCON campaign.[3] Without Ekitike's pace and incision, Liverpool played Cody Gakpo up top against Fulham, highlighting the striker shortage.[3][5]

Slot noted similar muscular issues for Arsenal's Florian Wirtz, attributing them to the festive schedule, but emphasized no major risk would be taken.[4] Fans await Slot's pre-match press conference Wednesday for clarity, as Ekitike's potential absence could hinder Liverpool's title push while sitting fourth.[1][2][5]

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