Liverpool Injury Latest After Fulham Draw as Hugo Ekitike Update Emerges

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has provided an update on Hugo Ekitike's injury status following the team's recent draw against Fulham, confirming the French striker's absence due to a minor hamstring issue.[1][2]

Ekitike, Liverpool's top scorer this season with eight league goals, was ruled out of the Fulham clash after a late MRI scan revealed the problem. Slot explained that the injury stemmed from increased workload, as fellow forward Alexander Isak has been sidelined for weeks, forcing Ekitike to play more minutes. "Isak has been out for a few weeks now, and that has meant Hugo had to play more minutes," Slot told Sky Sports pre-match. "That has led to the fact he picked up a slight hamstring injury."[1][2]

The absence left Liverpool short on striking options, with Mohamed Salah also unavailable due to international duty at the Africa Cup of Nations. Despite this, Slot remains optimistic: "Hopefully [he] will be back for the Arsenal game but that is not sure yet."[1]

To cover Ekitike's role, summer signing Florian Wirtz is poised to step up front, while Cody Gakpo's return to the starting lineup will bolster the attack. Other changes include Milos Kerkez and Alexis Mac Allister starting after missing the New Year's Day draw against Leeds United, with Andy Robertson and Jeremie Frimpong on the bench.[1]

Ekitike has been a standout performer in a challenging season for Slot's side, and his potential return against Arsenal could be crucial. Fans await further scans, but the minor nature of the injury offers hope for a swift recovery.[1][2]

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