Ekitike Arsenal trip in doubt as Slot says Liverpool striker has not trained ahead of Premier League clash with leaders Arsenal

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has said striker Hugo Ekitike remains a doubt for Thursday’s Premier League trip to Arsenal because of an ongoing muscle problem.

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The French forward missed last weekend’s 2–2 draw with Fulham and has not yet returned to full training with the squad, leaving his availability for the league leaders’ test uncertain.

Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Slot said Ekitike’s recovery was progressing but not yet complete.

“He has not trained with us until now. Let’s see if he can today,” Slot said.

“I said two days ago before Fulham that he will not be out for long, but as the games come so fast, he is in between training with the team, or it may take him a few days extra.”

Liverpool travel to the Emirates Stadium trailing Arsenal by 14 points in the Premier League table, making the fixture a critical moment in their pursuit of the leaders.

The club has not issued a timeline for Ekitike’s return, and Slot said a final decision on his involvement would depend on the forward’s response to training.