Hugo Ekitike is ready to shoulder the load for Liverpool following Isak injury blow

"For weeks, questions have surrounded Arne Slot's task of balancing the integration of Alexander Isak into the squad while rewarding Hugo Ekitike's flying start to life at Liverpool. It felt as though everyone had an opinion - from calls to implement a two-striker system to those adamant that one should start ahead of the other. Now, Slot's decision has been made for him."

"After Liverpool fans waited with bated breath to learn the extent of the injury Isak sustained while scoring the opening goal against Tottenham on Saturday, it was confirmed that the No. 9 suffered a fractured fibula, sidelining him for several months. The squad will undoubtedly be sending their best wishes to the new signing as he recovers, but with plenty of work still to be done both domestically and in Europe, the manager and the team will already be strategizing on how best to move forward without the Swede."

"Before the possibility of signing Isak became real, many viewed Ekitike as a player with a similar stature and skill set, especially given that the Frenchman is just one inch shorter than his 6'4" teammate. Ekitike has been proving that assessment correct of late, and while defenders may now look to throw everything they have at him on the ground, his aerial dominance has continued to blossom - most notably through headed goals against Brighton and Tottenham in his last two outings."

Alexander Isak suffered a fractured fibula while scoring the opening goal against Tottenham and will be sidelined for several months. Liverpool must proceed without the new No. 9 while managing domestic and European commitments. Hugo Ekitike has emerged as the lone focal point up front after scoring five goals in his last three matches. Ekitike combines similar stature to Isak, standing only one inch shorter, and has demonstrated growing aerial dominance with headed goals against Brighton and Tottenham. Opponents may increasingly target him on the ground, so Liverpool will need tactical adjustments to sustain his scoring form.

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