Liverpool striker Hugo Ekitike is currently out of action with a serious Achilles injury, but a positive claim has now emerged regarding his return date.
The Frenchman has been on the sidelines since picking up the issue against Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League back in April, sending a message to Reds supporters:
“It’s hard, maybe even unfair… but I’m grateful this is happening to me here, among you. I’m not alone. Your strength and your love will be my driving force. See you again soon, Anfield.”
There have been fears that Ekitike’s injury is so serious that he could even miss the whole of next season, but now a more positive claim has dropped.
According to a respected source on X, there is hope from the Liverpool attacker could he return to action this year: “Wow! Hugo Ekitike thinks he can come back before Christmas.”
Potential huge boost for Liverpool and Hugo Ekitike
If true, this would be massive news for Ekitike, amid fears that he may even never be the same player again, given the severity of his Achilles problem.
The 24-year-old was such an impressive signing after joining Liverpool from Eintracht Frankfurt, scoring 17 goals in 45 appearances, and former England striker Jermain Defoe has shown his admiration for him, saying:
“I think he can do everything. And I did the game. I went to the game against Bournemouth, first game of the season at Anfield. I just watched him and I watched his movement. How he comes off, his timing of his movement and soft touches. The timing of his runs, the opposite movement, the finishing.”
If Ekitike does return earlier than expected, it is vital that Liverpool manage him with care and don’t rush him back, instead looking at the long-term picture.
He is still a young player with so much to offer, so easing him back into the fold makes complete sense, with the Reds needing to sign a new striker this summer, ensuring there is a good backup option to Alexander Isak.
Whether that happens remains to be seen, but not adding a centre forward would feel like a big risk, especially as Isak has had injury issues of his own.