Liverpool have been dealt a significant setback ahead of their Premier League encounter with Fulham this afternoon, with striker Hugo Ekitike forced to miss the crucial fixture.
In-Form Striker Sidelined
The French forward, who has been in excellent scoring form, was a notable omission from the matchday squad named by manager Arne Slot. The club's official website confirmed the news, stating Ekitike "misses out due to a minor fitness issue."
Providing further detail in his pre-match comments, Slot revealed the specific nature of the problem. "Hugo picked up a slight hamstring injury because we had to play him more and more minutes," the Dutch coach explained. He added a note of optimism, saying, "Hopefully he will be back for the Arsenal game."
Impact on Liverpool's Lineup
Ekitike's absence is a considerable blow for a Liverpool side seeking to return to winning ways after a disappointing goalless draw with Leeds United on New Year's Day. The 23-year-old has been a key attacking outlet this season, netting eight league goals, with an impressive five coming in his last five starts.
In his place, Cody Gakpo comes into the starting eleven and is likely to lead the line for the Reds at Craven Cottage. The team news also confirmed a return for Alexis Mac Allister, who starts in midfield, while Milos Kerkez gets the nod over Andy Robertson at left-back.
There was positive news regarding German playmaker Florian Wirtz, who was an injury doubt but has been passed fit to start.
Fulham's Changes and Context
Fulham manager Marco Silva has made three alterations to his side following their midweek 1-1 draw with Crystal Palace. Issa Diop, Timothy Castagne, and Tom Cairney all enter the starting lineup, replacing Kevin, Kenny Tete, and Sander Berge.
The match presents an opportunity for Liverpool to solidify their position in the top four. Despite their recent stalemate, Slot's team are now unbeaten in seven Premier League matches and sit fourth in the table. However, they remain a substantial 15 points behind leaders Arsenal, highlighting the need for consistent victories in the second half of the campaign.
