Liverpool striker Hugo Ekitike continued to gain a foothold in the France national team with a start against Azerbaijan on Sunday.
Ekitike earned his first call-up in September and has since been part of Didier Deschamps’ two subsequent squads.
The 23-year-old scored his first France goal earlier in the week after slotting home against Ukraine, and was rewarded with a start in Baku.
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Unfortunately, Ekitike could not find the net once again in a team captained by Liverpool teammate Ibrahima Konate.
Nevertheless, Liverpool’s No. 22 still appeared to make an impression on Deschamps during the 3-1 win.
Speaking to the press after the game, the World Cup winning manager singled out Ekitike for some special words.
Hugo Ekitike prepares to come on as a substitute during France's FIFA World Cup qualifying match against Iceland as Didier Deschamps watches on.
Photo by Xavier Laine/Getty Images
Didier Deschamps hails Hugo Ekitike qualities
Although Ekitike has gone off the boil a little over recent weeks, his technical ability has been clear since day one at Liverpool.
The France international is still so young and looks destined for a big role at both club and country in the future.
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Liverpool fans voted Ekitike as their signing of the summer, and according to Deschamps, the former Eintracht Frankfurt man is growing in confidence all the time.
“Hugo Ekitike is also gaining confidence,” he said via Foot Mercato.
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Ibrahima Konate of Liverpool lines up before the Premier League match between Manchester City and Liverpool at Etihad Stadium
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“He’s a young player, with a lot of dynamism. He has the ability to break through with his speed. These are attacking elements that are adding to the squad.”
As Liverpool hopefully improve as a whole after the international break, fans will hope to see these abilities with even more regularity.
Ekitike has to be part of Liverpool’s best XI
Although they have been roundly impressed by Ekitike since his arrival over the summer, some supporters would still have him sitting on the bench this season.
Alexander Isak clearly has to play when fit, and to some that means Ekitike has to settle for a place on the bench.
How Liverpool fans voted their best summer signing
1 – Hugo Ekitike 77%
2 – Giorgi Mamardashvili 7%
3 – Florian Wirtz 6%
4 – Giovanni Leoni 4%
5 – Alexander Isak 3%
6 – Freddie Woodman 2%
7 – Milos Kerkez 1%
8 – Jeremie Frimpong 0.73%
Hugo Ekitike celebrates after scoring for Liverpool against Newcastle United in the Premier League at St James' Park.
Photo by Harriet Massey/Newcastle United via Getty Images
However, those supporters really need to hear Deschamps’ verdict on the Frenchman. If they have not seen it yet with their own eyes, then listen to the man who has guided a team to two World Cup finals.
Ekitike absolutely has to be a part of any XI Arne Slot sees as being his best one at Liverpool. Whether that is on the left or through the middle of the attack, he simply has to play.
Sunday was another step forward for Ekitike’s status in the national team. At Liverpool, however, he should not need any more elevation.