Arne Slot opens up how Liverpool will cope without its biggest weapon vs Arsenal

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Hugo Ekitike misses out for Liverpool again as the Reds take on Arsenal, with Arne Slot's side looking to put a major dent in the Gunners' title hopes in north London

Liverpool boss Arne Slot(Image: Getty Images)

Arne Slot has admitted Hugo Ekitike is a huge miss after the striker was left out of Liverpool’s side to face Arsenal.

The French international was deemed to be a major doubt for the clash in north London after picking up a hamstring injury that also kept him out of Sunday’s 2-2 draw at Fulham.

Slot refused to rule Ekitike out of contention to face Arsenal, although conceded that a late decision would have to be made on his fitness. Having been left out of the squad once again, concerns will be raised again, with fellow striker Alexander Isak also out for a lengthy spell.

"Missing out on players is never nice, and it makes it harder if the other option is also unavailable,” Slot told Sky Sports ahead of today’s game.

“Indeed, pace is a big weapon to have against any opponent, but definitely against a team that usually dominates possession.

"We have to adjust looking at the players we have available, looking at the qualities Arsenal have, and come up with, in my opinion, the best possible game plan.”

Hugo Ekitike misses out for Liverpool against Arsenal(Image: (Photo by Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images))

Explaining his team, Slot added: "We brought in a bit of pace with [Jeremie] Frimpong, I've said that he has been out for three or four months, not constantly but mainly. Then he had to play a few games in a row, so I decided to use him as a sub against Fulham so he is available tonight.

"Of course after a spell of time these players are more than capable to play every single game, but if they have been out for a few months it is a risk, so you have to adjust."

Liverpool will be aiming to narrow a huge gap to the current Premier League leaders tonight, with Arsenal sat 14 points ahead of the Reds, and Slot’s side looking to strengthen their spot in the top four.

"A lot. They have shown this season how good of a team they are, they are improving every single year.

"They are probably in the best moment of the last 10 or 15 years, not only on the pitch but also the fans and everyone.

"We have to be at our best, but we've shown this season against difficult teams that we are able to compete and that's what we aim for today."