Ekitike addresses Liverpool harm blow after Galatasaray defeat
Liverpool’s evening in Istanbul was outlined by defeat, disruption and discomfort. A 1-0 loss to Galatasaray within the Champions League was not solely a second successive setback in all competitions but in addition one other reminder of the fragility of our bodies below pressure.
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Ekitike explains harm concern
The decisive second on the pitch got here from Victor Osimhen’s Sixteenth-minute penalty. But by the ultimate whistle, dialog was as a lot about these unable to complete the match as those that performed it.
Alisson Becker left the sector within the second half, changed by Giorgi Mamardashvili. Minutes later, Hugo Ekitike additionally hobbled off after therapy. Talking afterwards, Arne Slot admitted the priority. “He felt one thing when he needed to attain for the ball,” mentioned Slot. “I believe everyone knows which one it was once we have been attempting to pressure one thing.”
The Liverpool supervisor added, “After the sport, that’s at all times the troublesome factor with these moments when gamers really feel like it’s not too dangerous, however if you simply stroll round it’s one thing completely different than if you make a dash or must shoot on track. He mentioned he couldn’t proceed so we needed to take him off. Let’s see how he’s for the weekend.”
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Participant’s personal phrases ease fears
As reported by The Athletic’s James Pearce, Ekitike himself provided reassurance to supporters as he left Rams Park. Pearce wrote on X: “Hugo Ekitike assured he solely had cramp in his hamstring moderately than something extra critical.”
Ekitike is anticipated to bear a scan to verify whether or not his perception is correct or if muscle harm has been sustained. For Liverpool followers, his phrases present at the least a brief aid after one other match formed by absences.
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Acquainted sample of setbacks
Liverpool have seen this earlier than. Ibrahima Konaté as soon as departed towards Arsenal with comparable fears, believing his discomfort was solely cramp. That proved right and he reported for worldwide responsibility days later. The hope for Slot is that Ekitike’s scenario follows the identical script moderately than lengthening a listing of accidents that already contains Alisson.
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No matter check outcomes, the striker is unlikely to begin towards Chelsea. He missed the defeat to Crystal Palace as a consequence of suspension and was changed towards Galatasaray by Alexander Isak, who continues his regular return to full health after a disrupted pre-season.
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Slot pressured into modifications for Chelsea
What is for certain is that Liverpool will probably be with out Alisson at Stamford Bridge. Slot confirmed his goalkeeper’s absence, that means Mamardashvili is in line for his Premier League debut. The Georgian joined from Valencia in the summertime for as much as £29 million and now has a right away check in London.
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Liverpool’s capacity to handle these setbacks, from the Ekitike harm scare to their goalkeeping reshuffle, might but decide the rhythm of their season. Defeat in Istanbul has left scars, however the extent of the harm is dependent upon scans, alternatives and the velocity of restoration.