Ekitike urges improvement in Isak partnership after Liverpool triumph

upday.com 4 godzin temu

Hugo Ekitike admitted his strike partnership with Alexander Isak needs improvement after Liverpool's emphatic 5-1 Champions League victory over Eintracht Frankfurt. The France international scored his first Champions League goal on his first start alongside the Sweden striker, helping end a four-game losing streak for Arne Slot's side.

Ekitike was candid about the partnership's early development. "I think it was good," he said when reflecting on playing alongside Isak. "Obviously it was not the best half together but I think we can improve together."

The striker praised his teammate's abilities despite their limited time together. "He's a very good player. I know in time we need to work together and find a good association. The links will come and it will work."

Partnership still developing

The duo have played just 266 minutes together out of Liverpool's 810 total minutes since Isak's summer arrival, according to Liverpool Echo analysis. Their partnership faced an early setback when Isak was substituted at half-time due to a groin injury, with Slot confirming the withdrawal was enforced rather than tactical.

Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konate, Cody Gakpo and Dominik Szoboszlai added further goals as Liverpool bounced back from Sunday's defeat to Manchester United. The victory showcased the team's attacking depth despite ongoing injury concerns.

Impressive early form

Ekitike has made a remarkable start to his Liverpool career, scoring six goals with one assist from 12 appearances since his £79 million summer transfer from Frankfurt. His immediate impact has drawn comparisons to Liverpool legends, with some suggesting his arrival mirrors the instant success of players like Luis Suarez and Fernando Torres.

In contrast, Isak has registered one goal and one assist from eight outings, with his only strike coming in the League Cup victory over Southampton. The Swedish striker has been playing catch-up following a disrupted pre-season at Newcastle United.

Respectful return

Ekitike showed class against his former club, refusing to celebrate his well-taken goal and instead holding his hands up apologetically to Frankfurt supporters. "I have so much respect for them," he told TNT Sports. "They made me the player I am right now. I wouldn't be here if I didn't come to Frankfurt."

The 22-year-old described his return to Germany as "something special" and expressed gratitude for Frankfurt's role in his development. "I can be respectful and grateful for what they gave to me," he added.

Sources used: "Liverpool Echo", "Daily Mail", "Mirror", "TNT Sports" Note: This article has been created with Artificial Intelligence (AI).

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