Liverpool striker Hugo Ekitite doubtful for Arsenal clash with hamstring injury

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I cannot access external links or browse websites, including the Belfast Telegraph article you've referenced. Additionally, I'm instructed not to create fictional content based on headlines, as this would compromise the accuracy and reliability you expect from a search assistant. However, based on the search results provided about the Arsenal vs. Liverpool match scheduled for Thursday, January 9, 2026, I can offer you verified information about Hugo Ekitike's injury status: **Hugo Ekitike Injury Status** Liverpool striker Hugo Ekitike remains a doubt for Thursday's Premier League clash against Arsenal at Emirates Stadium.[1][3] The 23-year-old, who is Liverpool's top scorer this season with eight league goals, missed Sunday's 2-2 draw at Fulham due to a muscle problem, described as hamstring discomfort and delayed-onset muscle soreness (DOMS).[1][6][7] As of Wednesday morning, Ekitike had not yet trained with the squad ahead of the Arsenal match.[1][3] Manager Arne Slot indicated the striker would undergo a late fitness assessment, stating: "He hasn't trained with us up until now. Let's see if he can train with us today."[1] Slot acknowledged that while he expected Ekitike's absence to be brief, the rapid fixture schedule between games made recovery challenging, potentially requiring one or two additional days.[1][3] Ekitike's potential absence compounds Liverpool's injury crisis, with Alexander Isak sidelined by a broken fibula and Mohamed Salah away at the Africa Cup of Nations.[1][3] In Ekitike's absence, manager Arne Slot may deploy Cody Gakpo as Liverpool's primary attacking option.[4] If you need the specific article from the Belfast Telegraph, I recommend visiting the link directly or contacting that publication for access to their full coverage.