Hugo Ekitike Injury Update as Liverpool Could Be Without Five Players for Arsenal Clash

Liverpool face a crucial Premier League showdown against leaders Arsenal on Thursday night, but manager Arne Slot has delivered worrying news on star forward Hugo Ekitike's fitness.[1][4][6]

The 23-year-old French striker, Liverpool's top scorer this season, missed the recent 2-2 draw at Fulham due to a minor hamstring injury or muscle soreness (DOMS), confirmed by an MRI scan.[3][6] Ekitike has not returned to full training with the squad, and Slot stated in his pre-match press conference: "Hugo has not trained with us up to this point; let's see if he can take part today."[1] He faces a late fitness test, with time of the essence amid a packed schedule.[1][4]

Slot acknowledged Liverpool's inconsistency this season but hopes a win over the "complete" Gunners could spark a turnaround.[1] Adding to concerns, Liverpool staff and player Conor Bradley have dropped Ekitike from their Fantasy Premier League teams ahead of the game, including head of rehab physiotherapy Lee Nobes—a potential hint of his absence.[3]

The article speculates Liverpool could be without up to five players for the Emirates clash, though specifics on the others are not detailed. Ekitike's unavailability would be a "huge body blow" for the Reds, who rely on his key role in the offensive lineup since joining.[1][3]

Slot remains cautiously optimistic, noting post-Fulham that the issue wouldn't sideline him long-term, but the intense fixture list complicates recovery.[1] Fans await final updates from Wednesday's presser. This match is pivotal for Liverpool to challenge Arsenal's dominance.[3]

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