Liverpool forward Hugo Ekitike has spoken openly about the mixed emotions surrounding his increased role at Anfield following Alexander Isak’s serious leg injury, admitting it has been “difficult” knowing his opportunity has come at the expense of a teammate’s misfortune.
Isak, Liverpool’s £125 million summer signing from Newcastle United, suffered a fractured leg during the Reds’ clash with Tottenham after a heavy challenge from defender Micky van de Ven. Although the Swedish striker managed to score in that match, the incident resulted in an injury severe enough to require surgery, ruling him out for a lengthy spell.
With Isak sidelined, Ekitike has been handed the responsibility of leading Liverpool’s attack for the foreseeable future.
Ekitike embraces responsibility amid Isak setback
Since Isak’s injury, Ekitike has firmly established himself as Liverpool’s first-choice No.9. The former Eintracht Frankfurt striker has enjoyed an impressive campaign, scoring 11 goals across all competitions and earning the trust of manager Arne Slot during a demanding run of fixtures.
However, despite benefiting from increased minutes, Ekitike was keen to stress that the circumstances surrounding his promotion have been uncomfortable.
Speaking to Liverpool’s official website, the French forward acknowledged the human side of the situation.
“Obviously that kind of thing happened and I was very sorry for him,” Ekitike said. “It’s not funny when you come to a new club and get injured with that kind of injury – it’s difficult.”
He added that while sympathy for Isak remains, his focus must remain on contributing whenever called upon.
“For me, I try to do my job. The coach puts me on the pitch and I’ll show him and show the fans that I can help the team. It doesn’t matter if I score or give assists. The most important thing for me is to win.”
Festive fixtures bring momentum for Ekitike
Ekitike has enjoyed a sustained run in the side over the festive period, featuring heavily during a packed schedule of matches. His form has been rewarded with key goals, including braces against Leeds United and Brighton, as well as a decisive strike against Tottenham.
Reflecting on the intense Christmas and New Year schedule, the striker described the experience as something special.
“It was obviously special to play around Christmas and the next day after New Year,” he said. “It’s really exciting.”
The 22-year-old admitted that not long ago, he was watching such matches from home rather than taking part.
“I was in a position when I was watching on TV, so being here and able to play that kind of game is a blessing.”
With January bringing another demanding stretch of fixtures, Ekitike emphasised the importance of recovery and consistency.
“Now we’re going back to a busy period, a lot of games in this month of January. It’s up to us to be fit, recover well after every game and be ready for the next one all the time.”
Unbeaten run remains the focus
Liverpool’s most recent outing ended in a frustrating draw against Leeds United, a result that left the squad disappointed despite extending their unbeaten run. The Reds have not suffered defeat since November 22, when they were beaten 3-0 by Nottingham Forest.
Ekitike acknowledged the challenges posed by Leeds’ defensive approach.
“It was a difficult game to face and a difficult team to play against,” he explained. “They were playing a low block and didn’t have much of the ball, so we had to create chances.”
Despite failing to secure all three points, the striker insisted lessons must be taken from the performance.
“We didn’t win, but we didn’t lose. It’s up to us to look forward, go to the next game and win.”
He also highlighted the importance of maintaining high standards, even during periods without victories.
“When you play here, the most important thing is to win, so we can’t be happy.”
What lies ahead for Liverpool
Liverpool return to action on Sunday with an away Premier League fixture against Fulham, before turning their attention to a major showdown with Arsenal next week. That clash will be followed by the third round of the FA Cup, where the Reds face Barnsley in their opening match of the competition.
Ekitike is yet to feature in the FA Cup for Liverpool and will be eager to make his mark in the world’s oldest cup competition. The Reds last lifted the trophy in the 2022/23 season, and the French striker will hope to play a central role in their latest bid for domestic silverware.