Former forward turned pundit Troy Deeney has praised Liverpool star Hugo Ekitike following his brace against Leeds United in the Premier League last weekend.
After parting ways with Darwin Núñez, the Reds decided to purchase the Frenchman from Eintracht Frankfurt last summer to bolster the frontline.
The 23-year-old enjoyed a promising start at Anfield, making seven goal contributions in the first 12 appearances across all competitions. However, he went goalless in the next eight consecutive matches before scoring a brace last weekend.
Although Ekitike scored two goals vs the Peacocks, Liverpool only managed to come away with a 3-3 draw. They even found themselves 2-0 up early in the second half. Currently, Liverpool are languishing in mid-table in the Premier League with 23 points from 15 matches.
Now, while creating the Team of the Week for BBC Sport, Deeney has included Ekitike and says that although Liverpool have been poor thus far this season, the Frenchman has shown glimpses of his qualities.
Moreover, the pundit urges Arne Slot to deploy Ekitike and Alexander Isak as the front two to bring the best out of both of them.
Deeney said:
“Even though he is in a team that is a shambles, he gets in through the middle. He scored two goals against Leeds. I understand Liverpool spent a lot of money on Alexander Isak – and I am a huge fan – but just start this kid. Get the two of them up front and figure it out.”
Pundit lauds Ekitike
After showcasing his qualities in the Premier League, Ekitike has secured his place in the France national team. He has helped his country qualify for next summer’s World Cup and is expected to be involved in this tournament at the end of this season.
Meanwhile, following Mohamed Salah’s fiery interview after being benched in three consecutive matches, the Reds have found themselves in a difficult situation.
The Egyptian has been dropped from tonight’s Champions League clash against Inter Milan, and it has been suggested that he might be sold in the upcoming winter transfer window.
It looks likely that Salah will join his national team for the AFCON without playing any more games for the Merseyside club, and it is going to be interesting to see what the future holds for the forward over the coming months.
