Liverpool Injury News: Ekitike, Isak, Leoni - Predicted Return Dates After Fulham Draw

Liverpool FC faces a striker crisis following their 2-2 draw at Fulham, with key forward Hugo Ekitike sidelined by a minor hamstring injury ahead of the crucial Arsenal clash.[1][2]

Ekitike missed the Sunday match due to the issue, attributed to a heavy recent workload, forcing manager Arne Slot to deploy Cody Gakpo as central striker instead of his usual left-wing role. Gakpo created chances but failed to secure a late winner, while Florian Wirtz impressed by scoring in Ekitike's absence.[1]

The injury compounds Liverpool's woes: star striker Alexander Isak is out long-term with a broken leg, and Mohamed Salah is away on AFCON duty with Egypt. Slot provided a post-match update, describing Ekitike's problem as "not severe" like Isak's but uncertain for Thursday's game against league leaders Arsenal. "It's difficult to say if he will be back for the next game," Slot said. "We never take risks with players, always following the advice of the medical team."[1]

Slot emphasized managing the packed schedule: "If Ekitike is fit, he will play. If not, someone else will need to step in, as we saw today." Ekitike's strong season form makes his potential absence troubling for the reigning champions.[1][2]

Predicted Return Dates

• Hugo Ekitike: Doubtful for Arsenal (Jan. 8?); minor hamstring, possible return next week if no risks taken.[1][2]
• Alexander Isak: Extended absence (broken leg); months out.[1]
• Mohamed Salah: AFCON duty; return post-tournament (late Jan./early Feb.).[1]
• Leoni: No specific update; monitoring ongoing squad issues post-Fulham.[2]

Liverpool must adapt quickly, with Slot praising the squad's depth but stressing caution amid fixture congestion.[1]

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