Liverpool fans all in agreement on Hugo Ekitike after debut v Yokohama
Hugo Ekitike made his debut for Liverpool in the 3-1 win against Yokohama Marinos.
Ekitike linked up with his Reds teammates after his £69million move from Eintracht Frankfurt but had to wait until Wednesday (30 July) to get on the pitch.
It remains to be seen whether the 23-year-old is Arne Slot’s main option in the number nine role, as they are pursuing a deal for Newcastle forward Alexander Isak.
Whether they get Isak or not, Ekitike will still have plenty of chances to impress at Anfield this season.
Ekitike has solid first match for Liverpool
The Frenchman featured for the first 45 minutes in the clash with the Japanese minnows, but was withdrawn for Darwin Nunez at half-time.
The young attacker had moments where he looked threatening; there was one chance where he just missed the target with a backheeled effort.
His pressing from the front was another positive, but his debut was nothing spectacular by any means.
Liverpool need to be patient with Ekitike – fans were impressed anyway
Despite the lack of goals, supporters were impressed with Ekitike’s display in Japan.
His work rate and pressing, especially after just a few training sessions, was an encouraging sign that he will fit in with Slot’s side.
Reds supporters just need to be patient with their new striker, everything suggests that he will come good, and while he did not score, it was not the worst display for a player who has only just joined the L4 club.
The likes of Michael Edwards and Richard Hughes must have seen something in his numbers to pay such a huge figure for his services.
Florian Wirtz, Trey Nyoni and Rio Ngumoha will take the headlines after the contest due to the goals that they scored, while Ekitike’s display goes under the radar, but it was a solid first showing.
He will hope to get on the scoresheet in the double header back of Merseyside against Spanish side Athletic Bilbao, but for now, his focus should be on working with his new teammates to gain the best possible understanding on the pitch.
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