There is some encouraging news coming out of the AXA Training Centre, with Hugo Ekitike appearing to be getting closer to a return to action for Liverpool.
The French striker was pictured leaving the training centre today, and the latest update suggests he is making excellent progress in his recovery.
After months on the sidelines, Liverpool supporters will be delighted to see signs that their summer signing is moving towards a comeback.
And the timing could be particularly important for Andoni Iraola.
A massive boost for Liverpool’s attack
Ekitike has been sorely missed since suffering a ruptured Achilles tendon in April.
It was a devastating injury for a player who had been making an exciting impression, and his absence has left Liverpool without another important attacking option.
The 24-year-old offers something different to the forward line.
He has pace, movement, technical ability and an eye for goal. He can stretch defences, link up with teammates and create opportunities for himself.
Liverpool have struggled for consistency in attack at times this season, and having another quality forward available would give Iraola a welcome selection headache.
Alexander Isak has been carrying much of the responsibility up front, while the likes of Cody Gakpo and Bradley Barcola have also been asked to contribute.
Getting Ekitike back would give Liverpool another option and allow the manager greater flexibility.
Don’t rush him back
While this is hugely encouraging, I would urge Liverpool to be patient.
An Achilles rupture is a serious injury, particularly for a forward whose game relies on acceleration, sharp movement and explosive changes of direction.
There is no point rushing Ekitike back for the sake of having another name on the team sheet.
He needs to be completely comfortable with his recovery, rebuild his fitness and regain confidence in his body before returning to competitive football.
Iraola and the medical staff must get this right.
The last thing anybody wants is another setback after such a lengthy rehabilitation process.
Could he return against Manchester United?
Liverpool face Manchester United at Anfield on Sunday, November 22, and supporters will naturally be wondering whether Ekitike could be involved.
However, I wouldn’t get carried away just yet.
Although the latest signs are positive, there has been no official confirmation that he will be available for that fixture.
Even if he is back doing more work at the training centre, there is a big difference between being close to fitness and being ready for Premier League football.
Liverpool have to think about the bigger picture.
There are plenty of important games coming up, and having Ekitike fully fit for the second half of the season could be worth far more than risking him too early.
Liverpool could have a very different attack with Ekitike back
I am genuinely excited about seeing what Ekitike can offer once he is fully fit.
We haven’t seen enough of him in a Liverpool shirt yet, and I believe there is plenty more to come.
Imagine having Isak and Ekitike available, with Wirtz, Gakpo, Barcola and Ngumoha providing attacking options around them.
That is some serious attacking talent.
The challenge for Iraola will be finding the right balance and making sure the forwards receive the service they need.
But competition for places can only be a good thing.
My verdict? This is exactly the sort of injury update Liverpool supporters have been waiting for.
Ekitike has a big part to play in the future of this team, and hopefully we are getting closer to seeing him back out on the pitch.
No rushing, no unnecessary risks – let’s get him properly fit and ready to make an impact.
Welcome back soon, Hugo!
By Jamie (The Kopite View)
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