Liverpool striker Hugo Ekitike has been urged by Florent Malouda to “adapt” following Alexander Isak’s blockbuster arrival at Anfield. The French forward joined from Eintracht Frankfurt for approximately £79million this summer and was anticipated to spearhead Liverpool’s attack this campaign.
However, the Reds then shattered the British transfer record with a staggering £125million swoop for Isak on a hectic deadline day, with the former Newcastle striker now poised to leapfrog Ekitike in the hierarchy. Ekitike has featured in all three of Liverpool’s opening Premier League fixtures this term and has impressed thus far, netting twice and providing one assist.
Nevertheless, with Isak threatening his status as first-choice striker, fellow Frenchman Malouda has offered guidance to help him retain his place in the side.
Speaking to Boyle Sports, Malouda said: “Will Alexander Isak impact the development of Hugo Ekitike? Yes, but great players adapt all the time. You have to renew yourself. You have to almost develop a toolbox.
“There’s always your favourite position, but in modern football, you also have the defensive part of the game where you need to be involved.
“That doesn’t stop you from being at your best level. Especially with young players, that’s what’s difficult to get, you need to give to the team first.
“It doesn’t matter the position. Then, with the relationship you create with the players around you, you will get the chances to score back because he’s a natural goal scorer.
“He’s a real threat, and he has this experience at PSG with a lot of stars, so he knows how to navigate in a dressing room full of stars. But his main thing is he wants to be on the pitch, he wants to improve his stats, deliver, and answer to the expectations around him.”
Massive pressure will be heaped on Isak’s shoulders to provide the goals for Liverpool as they bid to retain their Premier League crown following his 23-goal haul last season.
Ekitike could still earn selection even if Isak becomes the preferred striker, given the 23-year-old’s versatility to operate out wide.
