Hugo Ekitike doubt vs. Arsenal as Arne Slot provides return update

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Hugo Ekitike Injury Update: Arsenal vs Liverpool

Liverpool striker Hugo Ekitike remains a doubt for Thursday's Premier League clash against Arsenal after sustaining a minor hamstring injury that forced him to miss Sunday's 2-2 draw at Fulham.

The 23-year-old French forward, who has emerged as a crucial attacking asset for the Reds this season, felt the injury during a training session before the Fulham fixture. An MRI scan revealed more than initially hoped, ruling out his participation in the match.

Manager Arne Slot initially hoped the issue was delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS), a common complaint following intensive fixture congestion. However, medical scans painted a grimmer picture, forcing the decision to rest Ekitike despite him traveling with the squad.

Ekitike's absence has been particularly impactful given Liverpool's current attacking depth crisis. With Alexander Isak sidelined since December following a collision with Tottenham's Micky van de Pen, Ekitike has shouldered the entire creative load upfront, playing six consecutive matches in 26 days before the injury.

Speaking ahead of the Arsenal encounter, Slot provided a cautiously optimistic update, suggesting Ekitike trained with the team on Wednesday and expressed hope for his availability. The manager described the situation as "touch and go," acknowledging the fixture congestion's impact on player fitness.

If Ekitike is unavailable, Cody Gakpo would likely start as striker for Liverpool's trip to the Emirates Stadium.

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