Ekitike form creates headache for Liverpool record signing Isak

Ekitike form Liverpool Isak debate grows as Wayne Rooney warns of a selection headache when the club’s record signing returns

Former Manchester United and England striker Wayne Rooney has warned Liverpool Football Club of a mounting selection dilemma, saying Hugo Ekitike’s prolific form has complicated the reintegration of British record signing Alexander Isak as he returns from injury.

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Speaking on The Wayne Rooney Show on BBC Sounds, Wayne Rooney said Liverpool’s attacking balance has shifted significantly during Isak’s absence, with Ekitike emerging as a decisive force in the Premier League title race.

Hugo Ekitike, the 23-year-old France forward, scored twice on Saturday as Liverpool came from behind to defeat Newcastle United at Anfield, taking his tally to 15 goals in 32 appearances across all competitions this season.

The forward joined Liverpool from Eintracht Frankfurt last summer for an initial £69m and has rapidly built an impressive understanding with Germany international Florian Wirtz, another high-profile arrival.

Rooney said the partnership between Ekitike and Wirtz poses a serious question for manager Jürgen Klopp ahead of Isak’s expected return.

“I’d be more worried if I was Isak, sat there watching,” Rooney said.

“His Liverpool career just hasn’t got up and going yet. They paid a lot of money for him, but these two seem to have a really good understanding of each other’s game and they look a real threat.”

Alexander Isak became the Premier League’s British record signing when Liverpool paid £125m to bring the Sweden international from Newcastle United.

However, the striker has scored just three goals in 16 appearances and has been sidelined since December with a broken leg.

Rooney also singled out Ekitike’s composure in front of goal, describing his second strike against Newcastle as instinctive and fearless.

“That little toe-poke finish reminded me of Romário,” Rooney said.

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The surge in Ekitike’s performances has strengthened Liverpool’s attacking depth but leaves Klopp facing a delicate decision as the season reaches its decisive phase.

Ibrahim Onipede