Arne Slot points out key flaw Hugo Ekitike must fix to reach the next level

The Dutch coach made it clear to reporters on Friday that Ekitike needs to be more effective in the air.

He explained: “That is what makes him [Ekitike] special, if you’re that tall and your footwork is as good as his. That’s what makes him special, if you’re so tall, he needs to be stronger in duels.”

Ekitike stands at 6ft 3in, but even with that height advantage, he has yet to show much strength in aerial battles since joining Liverpool.

So far this Premier League season, FotMob reports he has been involved in 11 aerial duels but has only come out on top 37.9% of the time.

Arne Slot facing big decision over Hugo Ekitike’s role

The forward may have room for improvement, but there is no denying the impact he has had since arriving at Anfield.

Ekitike already has six goals and one assist in 15 appearances since joining from Eintracht Frankfurt.

The Frenchman is expected to lead the line again on Sunday, though Isak’s return will give Slot something to think about.

Jamie Carragher has even questioned why both players were brought in by Liverpool this summer.

“My mind boggles going forward how this is going to work, but right now Ekitike’s got the shirt, he’s playing really well and it will probably do Isak a little bit of good if he’s out of the team to build his fitness up in training more,” he stated.

Liverpool play Nottingham Forest next on November 22nd following their meeting with Manchester City. By then, Isak should be closer to full fitness and could push for a return to the starting XI ahead of Ekitike.